Short- and long-term outcomes and complications following feline perineal urethrostomy

Perineal urethrostomy (PU) is a surgical procedure performed in male cats with recurrent urethral obstructions or irreversible urethral damage, creating a permanent urinary stoma. Although PU effectively relieves obstruction, it can lead to postoperative complications that affect feline quality of life.

The present study assessed the short and long-term outcomes and complications following PU in 10 male cats treated at the Small Animal Hospital, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran. A retrospective review of the medical records was conducted for male cats diagnosed with feline lower urinary tract disease (FLUTD) and undergoing PU between October 2020 and January 2025. Data were collected from hospital records and owner questionnaires. Descriptive analysis of collected data was performed using appropriate tests. The study population consisted of 10 cats, 0.5-7 years of age and weighing between 1 and 5 kg, representing Domestic Shorthair (DSH), Persian, and Scottish breeds.

PU was effective in managing FLUTD, with 9 out of 10 owners reporting satisfaction. Short and long-term complications were minimal, which supports the surgical efficacy. Short-term complications included cystitis, hematuria, polyuria, dysuria, urinary tract infection, dribbling, recurrent obstruction, urethral stricture, and urinary leakage. Long-term complications can involve: chronic urinary tract infections, recurrent strictures, and persistent incontinence or stranguria. Importantly, all procedures were performed in the colder months of the year, between October and March. Only two of the ten cats experienced recurrent urinary issues. All owners (100%) endorsed the surgery for similar cases.

PU is an effective intervention for FLUTD in male cats, though findings should be interpreted cautiously due to the limited sample size and follow-up duration. These results support further research and provide evidence for the surgical management of FLUTD.