Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease (FLUTD) & Urinary Blockage Surgery

Urethral Catheterisation
From $1,800 - $2,200
Perineal Urethrostomy (PU) Surgery
From $2,500 - $3,000
what is it What to expect Cost Post operative care FAQs book a consult
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What is it?

Urinary blockages in cats cause pain, straining, and life-threatening complications. Prompt treatment, including catheterisation or surgery, is essential for relief and recovery.

Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease (FLUTD) & Urinary Blockage Surgery

Blocked cats can't wait - prompt treatment saves lives!

Is your cat struggling to urinate, vocalising in pain, or showing signs of distress? Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease (FLUTD) is a common but potentially life-threatening condition, especially in male cats. Urinary blockages require urgent veterinary care, and in severe cases, surgery may be necessary to prevent life-threatening complications.

At MPS, we offer advanced treatment options, including urethral catheterisation and perineal urethrostomy (PU) surgery, to relieve blockages and reduce the risk of recurrence.

What is Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease (FLUTD)?

FLUTD is a condition affecting a cats lower urinary tract, causing pain, difficulty urinating, and in some cases, life threatening obstructions. The most common causes are:

  • Urethral Plugs - A mix of crystals, mucus, and inflammatory cells that block urine flow.
  • Bladder Stones - Mineral deposits that can obstruct the urethra.
  • (FIC - Feline Idiopathic Cystitis) - Often linked to stress, causing swelling and spasms that prevent urination.

Male cats are at a higher risk due to their longer, narrower urethra, which is more prone to obstruction.

Signs Your Cat May Have a Urinary Blockage

Cats suffering from FLUTD or a blockage may display:

  • Frequent trips to the litter tray with little or no urine output
  • Straining or crying out while urinating
  • Licking the genital area excessively
  • Bloody urine
  • Vomiting, lethargy, or hiding

A complete blockage is a medical emergency - without treatment, it can lead to kidney failure, heart complications, and death within 24 to 48 hours.

Urinary Blockage Treatment: What to Expect

Treatment depends on the severity of the obstruction.

1. Urethral Catheterisation

For cats with the first time or mild obstruction, we attempt to relieve the blockage without surgery. Procedure:

  • Stabilisation: IV fluids, pain relief, and medications are given to correct dehydration and electrolyte imbalances.
  • Anaesthesia & Catheterisation: A small urinary catheter is inserted into the urethra to flush out the blockage.
  • Hospitalisation: The catheter remains in place for 24-72 hours while inflammation subsides.

If catheterisation is successful, the blockage is cleared, and your cat is just charged with medication and a specialised urinary diet to prevent recurrence.

2. Perineal Urethrostomy (PU) Surgery

For cats with recurrent blockages or severe obstruction, a PU surgery may be required.

What is PU Surgery?

  • The narrow end of the urethra is removed, creating a wider urinary opening to prevent future blockages.
  • This procedure significantly reduces the risk of obstruction but does not cure FLUTD entirely.
  • Recovery includes pain relief, antibiotics, and close monitoring.
3. Post-Operative Care

Proper aftercare is essential for a smooth recovery.

  • Hospitalisation for 1-3 days after the procedure.
  • Pain relief & anti-inflammatory medication to aid comfort.
  • Litter box modifications - avoid dusty litter that may irritate the surgical site.
  • Prescription urinary diet - helps dissolve crystals and prevent future stone formation.
  • Close monitoring - look for signs for re blocking, excessive straining, or vocalisation.

With early intervention most cats recover well. PU surgery significantly reduces re blocking risks, though some cats may still experience occasional urinary issues.

Cost of Urinary Blockage Treatment in Cats

At Melbourne Pet Surgery, we provide affordable, high-quality surgical care for urinary obstructions.

  • Urethral Catheterisation: $1,800 - $2,200
  • Perineal Urethrostomy (PU) Surgery: $2,500 - $3,000

Costs include:

  • Pre-surgical tests
  • Anaesthesia and surgery
  • Hospitalisation and post-op monitoring
  • IV fluids, medications, and pain management

Why Choose Melbourne Pet Surgery

At MPS, we understand the urgency of urinary blockages and prioritise fast, compassionate care.

Advanced Surgical Expertise

in soft tissue and emergency procedures.

Affordable Pricing

without compromising quality.

State-of-the-Art Facilities

with experienced veterinary teams.

Personalised Care

and follow-up to ensure the best recovery for your cat.

FAQs
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What is the life expectancy of a cat with FLUTD?

With proper management, most cats live full, healthy lives after treatment. However, some may have recurring episodes that require ongoing care.

Can FLUTD in cats be cured?

FLUTD is a lifelong condition, but it can be effectively managed with dietary changes, stress reduction, and medical treatments.

What is the difference between a cat UTI and FLUTD?

A UTI (Urinary Tract Infection) is caused by bacteria and is treated with antibiotics. FLUTD is a broader condition that includes inflammation, crystals, and blockages, but is not always due to an infection.

Is FLUTD caused by stress?

Yes, stress is a major trigger, especially for Feline Idiopathic Cystitis (FIC). Environmental changes, anxiety, or conflict with other pets can contribute to flare-ups.

How can I treat FLUTD in cats at home?

If your cat has a urinary tract blockage DO NOT ATTEMPT HOME TREATMENT - this is a medical emergency. However, for managing FLUTD long term:

  • Provide plenty of fresh water.
  • Feed a prescription urinary diet.
  • Minimise stress with a calm, stable environment.
Can a cat die from FLUTD?

Yes, if left untreated, a urinary blockage can be fatal within 24-48 hours due to kidney failure and heart complications.

How much does feline urinary blockage treatment cost?
  • Urethral Catheterisation: $1,800 - $2,200
  • Perineal Urethrostomy (PU) Surgery: $2,500 - $3,000
Does PU Surgery guarantee my cat won't block again?

PU Surgery significantly reduces the risks of blockages but does not cure FLUTD. Some cats may still experience urinary issues due to inflammation, crystals or stress-related factors.

Book an Appointment at Melbourne Pet Surgery
If your cat is showing signs of FLUTD or has a urinary blockage, don’t delay - early treatment is critical. Call us today to schedule an appointment with our experienced and caring team.