Cystotomy Surgery
What is it?
A cystotomy is a surgical procedure in which a veterinarian opens the bladder, usually to remove bladder stones, tumors, or foreign bodies, or to address severe bladder infections. As a pet owner, you should watch for the following symptoms that might indicate your pet needs a cystotomy:
What to look for?
- Straining to Urinate (Stranguria) – Difficulty or pain while urinating, which may suggest an obstruction or irritation.
- Frequent Urination (Pollakiuria) – Your pet may attempt to urinate multiple times but only produce small amounts.
- Blood in Urine (Hematuria) – Pink, red, or brown discoloration in urine could indicate bladder stones, infections, or tumors.
- Urinating in Unusual Places – If your pet suddenly starts urinating outside their litter box or usual spot, it may be due to discomfort.
- Signs of Pain – Whining, licking the genital area excessively, or appearing uncomfortable when trying to urinate.
- Lethargy or Loss of Appetite – General signs of illness that may accompany bladder infections or severe inflammation.
- Inability to Urinate (Emergency!) – A complete blockage, common in male cats and some dogs, is life-threatening and requires immediate veterinary attention.
What will my vet do?
- Surgically Open the Bladder – The vet makes an incision in the bladder to remove stones, tumors, or foreign material.
- Flush and Examine the Bladder – The bladder is thoroughly flushed to remove any remaining debris and checked for abnormalities.
- Close the Bladder and Provide Post-Op Care – The bladder is sutured, and the pet receives pain management, antibiotics, and monitoring for recovery.
Emergency Situations
- Inability to Urinate or Straining with No Output (Emergency!) – This can indicate a life-threatening urinary obstruction.
- Blood in Urine or Frequent, Painful Urination – Suggests bladder stones, infections, or other issues requiring urgent attention.