One of the most dangerous diseases of the reproductive system is pyometra in cats. This is not just endometritis, but a purulent inflammation that develops in the lining of the uterus. Like any purulent inflammation, pyometra threatens the life of the animal. If you do not start specific treatment as soon as possible, then the pet may die from sepsis and peritonitis (the uterus will rupture, and pus will pour out into the abdominal cavity).
The main cause of pyometra in dogs is the attachment of pathogenic microflora against the background of hormonal imbalance.
And when can the hormonal background change? Even in a healthy animal, this can happen during estrus. But at the same time, with neoplasms (tumors), endometritis (especially after childbirth).
- Often, owners give cats a hunt suppression drug so that the cats do not scream and demand the cat. But rarely does any of them think about how these drops and pills act on the body. But it is the uncontrolled giving of such "drugs" that provokes a change in the hormonal background.
- If a cat gives birth, then if there are antiseptic conditions around, then there is a great risk that she will have endometritis after childbirth, and as a complication - pyometra. Bacteria from the litter or non-sterile instruments and hands will enter the vagina, and then into the uterine cavity.
- Often the cause of pyometra is the uncontrolled mating of a cat. Especially if the cats are not tested, they are carriers of bacterial diseases.
Symptoms
What are the signs of pyometra in cats? Symptoms will depend on the form of purulent inflammation. There is a closed one, when the cervix is closed and pus accumulates inside the organ cavity and is not excreted, but there is also an open one, when the cervical canal is open and the purulent contents freely “leave” through the genital tract. But still, let's take a closer look at what symptoms of pyometra in cats should alert you.
Open
As mentioned above, with an open form from the genital tract, purulent discharge with an unpleasant, pungent characteristic odor will be visible. The hair near the vulva will stick together and get dirty. The cat will tend to lick this place.
Due to purulent inflammation, the animal will develop a fever (the body temperature will rise), the appetite will practically disappear. The pet will lie longer.
Disorders of the gastrointestinal tract will be noted. Due to the onset of intoxication, the mustache may experience vomiting, diarrhea, and dehydration developing against their background.
Closed
The closed form is diagnosed by the owners worse than the open form, since there will be no vaginal discharge. The temperature will rise to 40-41 degrees. Strongest oppression. The cat can worry, meow loudly, show you in every possible way with its behavior that it is worried about the stomach. It, in turn, will increase. Some owners will attribute this to overeating or the onset of pregnancy (especially if there was a mating in heat). However, soreness will be noted upon palpation.
In some cases, the first signs of pyometra in cats appear a couple of months after estrus. But there is also a hyperacute course, when the symptoms do not even have time to appear, and the animal dies due to peritonitis. In this case, pus is formed very quickly, its volume can reach a liter. Just imagine what such an amount of exudate in the cavity of a closed organ will do to its walls? It will just rip. Therefore, pus is poured into the abdominal cavity, which causes the death of the animal (severe pain shock, internal bleeding due to rupture of the walls of the uterus, purulent peritonitis).
Treating a cat
If the cat has pyometra, treatment should be started immediately. Delay threatens not only health, but also the life of the mustache. The veterinarian will decide whether to resort to medication or surgery.
Antibiotic therapy will give a positive result only with an open form of purulent endometritis. If relief does not come after the course of treatment, then the doctor can change the antibiotic with another active substance. But it is better to titrate pathogenic microflora to different types of antibiotics in order to adjust the treatment regimen. But since the titration will take more than 3 days, a broad-spectrum drug will be prescribed on the first day.
With a closed form, only surgical intervention is used. The uterus is removed completely. After the operation, antibiotic therapy is still needed. It is better to take blood and urine tests to see if there are any complications with the urinary system.
Prevention of pyometra
- If you do not want your pet to ever suffer from such a disease, then you will take it to the clinic, where it is castrated. That is, not only will the oviducts be tied up or the ovaries removed, but the uterus will also be cut out.
- If you want to preserve the reproductive function of the animal, then you have to work hard. First, never give hormone suppressants. It is better to sterilize the animal than to change its hormonal background. Not only pyometra can develop, but also polycystic ovary disease, neoplasms will appear.
- Second, keep your cat out of contact with untested cats. No stray, homeless people. If you have already decided to bring your pet, then choose the male for her carefully. Let the owners of the cat provide a certificate that their cat is completely healthy.
- Thirdly, carry a cat of fertile age to the clinic for ultrasound of the pelvic organs at least once a year to assess the health of the mustache.
- Create a sterile environment for the giving birth cat. Do not just wash the bedding, but also iron it from 2 sides (if there is a steam boost on the iron, use it, this will kill more bacteria). Change to dry, clean and sterile litter as soon as kittens appear. Show your new mom to the vet.
You can also ask a question to the in-house veterinarian of our website, who will answer them as soon as possible in the comment box below.
Pyometra- This is an accumulation of purulent exudate in the uterine cavity of a cat. All cats are sick with pyometra - both those who have given birth and have not given birth.
Of course, a cat cannot get sick with pyometra after sterilization, when both ovaries were removed from the cat along with the uterus. In the absence of timely treatment, pyometra can lead to severe septic complications and even death of the cat.
Causes of the appearance of pyometra in a cat
The appearance of pyometra in a cat can be triggered by a number of factors:
- Injuries during childbirth, delivery in non-sterile conditions, in violation of aseptic and antiseptic rules.
- Ovarian hormonal dysfunction. It develops in a cat due to high levels of progesterone and estrogen in the body of cats, can develop when taking medications for estrus (contrasex, anti-sex), etc. With hormonal dysfunction, the cat develops glandular-cystic hyperplasia of the endometrium, accompanied by the appearance of cysts. There is a weakening of the body's defenses and, as a result, the cat develops pyometra.
- Inflammation of the genitourinary system (,), in which the inflammatory process from the lower parts of the genital apparatus enters the uterine cavity.
- Uncontrolled mating, mating with an unchecked cat.
- Infectious and invasive diseases, the causative agents of which affect the cat's endometrium ().
Signs of pyometra in a cat
Pyometra in cats can be open and closed.
With an open pyometra the cervical canal is open and purulent contents of pink or brown color are excreted in large quantities from the vulva. After lying down, the cat leaves whitish spots on the litter, the body temperature rises by 1 -1.5 ° C. A sick cat has increased thirst, complete and partial loss of appetite, gastrointestinal upset (), frequent urination. The cat licks its genitals every 20-30 minutes.
With closed pyometra, during an external examination, there are no vaginal discharge. the cervix is closed. Purulent exudate accumulates in the uterine cavity, causing intoxication of the body. The body temperature rises by 1-2 ° C, the cat has no discharge from the external genital organs, the thirst is greatly increased, the appetite disappears, the general condition is rapidly deteriorating. The activity of the gastrointestinal tract is disrupted - diarrhea appears. The defeat of the genitourinary system is accompanied by frequent urination. The cat's abdomen is enlarged and tight on palpation. The cat develops intoxication of the body, breathing becomes heavy, there is no reaction to external stimuli.
In some cats, the development of pyometra can be very rapid, and the cat can die before the onset of symptoms of the disease characteristic of pyometra. The amount of purulent exudate in the uterine cavity can reach a liter in two days, the thin layers of the uterus cannot withstand pressure, and pus is released into the abdominal cavity with the development of purulent peritonitis.
Diagnosis of pyometra
The diagnosis of pyometra by veterinary specialists is complex. When the first signs of pyometra appear, cat owners should immediately contact a veterinary clinic, in which veterinarians will conduct a clinical examination of a sick cat, do an ultrasound scan - in which the uterus will look greatly enlarged with thickened walls and cysts. A blood test will be done. With pyometra, the blood will show leukocytosis, a shift of the leukocyte formula to the left, hyperproteinemia, hyperglobulemia, the urea content reaches 300 mg.
Treatment of pyometra in a cat
Despite the fact that some owners are categorically opposed to the surgical removal of the uterus and ovaries, this radical treatment for pyometra is the most optimal treatment that can save your pet's life. During the operation, the veterinarian completely removes the uterus with accumulated pus inside and both ovaries.
The prognosis for this method of treatment is favorable.
Conservative treatment gives a positive result only at the initial stage of pyometra development in a cat and when the owner wants to keep the offspring. The purpose of the conservative method of treatment is to remove purulent exudate from the uterine cavity, suppress the pathogenic microflora remaining in the uterus and increase the defenses of the sick cat's body. Based on this, veterinary specialists for a cat with pyometra the following medications are prescribed:
- To remove purulent exudate from the cavity of the maca, the cat is injected with drugs that cause contraction of the muscles of the uterus - oxytocin or one of the prostaglandin drugs. They must be used with great care as overdose can lead to rupture of the uterus and the development of purulent peritonitis.
- Intramuscular administration of antibiotics (tilan, gentamicin, ceftriaxone, etc.).
- To increase immunity, a sick cat is prescribed immunomodulators and ribotan.
The prognosis for conservative treatment of pyometra is cautious.
Caring for your cat after surgery
After surgery (removal of the uterus and ovaries), your pet needs appropriate care. When carrying out care, it is necessary:
- Put a postoperative blanket on the cat (sometimes this is done in a veterinary clinic), so that the cat does not gnaw or lick the postoperative stitches.
- Inspect the incision daily. If redness or inflammation appears at the suture site, the cat must be shown to the veterinary clinic where the operation was performed.
- Despite the fact that the cat may lose appetite after the operation, the cat should have free access to water.
- After the operation, the cat is prescribed a special veterinary diet (pates) or chicken broth with chopped meat. It is necessary to feed the cat with soft and semi-liquid food.
- Any deterioration in the general health of the cat should be shown to the veterinarian.
Prevention of pyometra in cats
The only reliable way to prevent pyometra in cats is sterilization (). It is advisable to perform this operation at an early age (after the first estrus).
In the event that your cat is involved in breeding and sterilization cannot be carried out, you will need to carry out regular examinations and examinations at your veterinary clinic. Avoid the causes that lead to the onset of pyometra in the cat, including not using hormonal contraceptives for the cat. Check your partner before mating. Carry out timely vaccination of the cat against infectious diseases. In some cases, veterinary experts recommend the use of antibacterial and hormonal drugs for the prevention of pyometra.
Endometritis is a disease in which the inner layer of the uterus becomes inflamed. It can be acute, or it can become chronic. The disease occurs when hormonal disorders in the body of the animal, to which a bacterial infection joins.
If treatment is not started at the time, purulent inflammation develops, thus endometritis can turn into pyometra - purulent inflammation of the uterus in a cat.
Veterinarians identify several factors that contribute to the development of the disease:
- hormonal disruptions: these can be postpartum changes, disorders in older animals that have undergone a large number of pregnancies and childbirth, changes as a result of the use of hormonal drugs;
- untreated inflammatory processes of the genitourinary system that have passed into the uterus: vaginitis, etc.;
- non-observance of sanitary conditions during childbirth, contributes to the entry of infection into the birth canal and the uterine cavity;
- untidiness of a cat during mating with an unexamined cat;
- adverse childbirth, trauma.
Uterine inflammation most commonly occurs in adult cats who have given birth over 5 years of age and in nulliparous cats over 3 years of age. Also, a postpartum complication often develops, this is inflammation of the uterus in a cat, we will consider the symptoms, treatment and diagnosis in this article. Disease is always easier to prevent than to cure. And timely treatment in most cases guarantees a complete cure.
Inflammation of the uterus in a cat, symptoms
The manifestations of endometritis can differ depending on whether the cervix is closed or not. If it is open, the following symptoms of inflammation can be distinguished:
- vaginal discharge of a mucous, mucopurulent or bloody nature;
- the cat seeks to lick the external genitals more often than usual;
- in the place where the animal sleeps, stains from secretions remain;
- in the chronic form, the skin around the root of the tail becomes inflamed, may become bald;
- lack of appetite;
- lack of activity;
- thirst;
- increase.
The chronic form of endometritis is characterized by a good general condition of the animal, it does not lose appetite, does not suffer from apathy, the temperature is kept within normal limits. However, the cat becomes infertile, even in the event of pregnancy, gestation will not occur.
Inflammation of the uterus in a cat with a closed cervix is much more severe. Pus accumulates inside, which has nowhere to go, pyometra develops. This is a serious condition that can lead to rupture of the uterus, the ingress of purulent masses into the abdominal cavity and, as a result, to the death of the pet.
Purulent inflammation is characterized by:
- an increase in the abdomen due to an enlarged uterus;
- fever;
- refusal to eat;
- intense thirst;
- lethargy, apathy;
- possible;
- frequent urination;
- the cat does not allow to touch the abdomen because of the strong pain.
If the cat has symptoms of uterine inflammation, it is necessary to take it to the veterinarian for examination as soon as possible for an accurate diagnosis and treatment.
Establishing diagnosis
If you suspect endometritis or pyometra, the veterinarian prescribes blood tests - general and biochemical, urinalysis, ultrasound, x-rays.
The disease is characterized by a strong increase in the number of leukocytes in the blood, an increase in the content of protein and globulins. Urine density decreases due to kidney damage. On ultrasound, you can see an increase in the size of the uterus, a change in its walls, the presence of exudate in the cavity. The x-ray also clearly shows how the uterus is filled with fluid and enlarged.
Another type of research that is used for this disease is taking vaginal swabs to determine the type of bacteria that caused the inflammation and their sensitivity to antibiotics.
Treatment options
Drug treatment is possible only at the initial stage of the disease with an open cervix. In this case, apply:
- general and local action;
- hormonal drugs to stimulate the contraction of the uterus, cleanse it of purulent contents;
- immunomodulators;
- solutions that remove intoxication of the body.
If the treatment is successful, you should carefully monitor the health and condition of the pet, especially during estrus, pregnancy and after childbirth. At this time, relapses of the disease are most likely.
However, in most cases, this therapy is not effective enough. If the cat's condition does not improve within a few days, a decision must be made to remove the diseased organ.
In the case of the development of a closed form of purulent inflammation, surgical intervention remains the only way to save the animal's life. It is necessary to remove the uterus, tubes and ovaries. In a spayed cat, the occurrence of this disease is impossible. After the operation, antibiotic therapy is also carried out to exclude postoperative complications.
Prophylaxis
To prevent the development of inflammation of the uterus and preserve the reproductive functions of the cat, certain rules must be followed. Do not give the animal hormonal drugs to regulate sexual activity. It is planned to mate your beloved Murka with a healthy cat. Monitor compliance with sanitary standards during childbirth, provide competent immediate assistance if childbirth is complicated. Perform regular abdominal and reproductive examinations to rule out disease. Timely treatment of diseases of the genitourinary system in order to prevent infection of the uterus.
However, the only way to prevent uterine inflammation in a cat is sterilization. If the owner does not plan breeding, then it is best to carry out the procedure starting from 8 months of age, since even a nulliparous pet may develop endometritis.
Pyometra in cats is an inflammatory disease of the endometrium of the uterus, which is accompanied by the accumulation of pus in its cavity. When the first symptoms of the disease appear, suggesting the possible development of pyometra, you should immediately contact your veterinarian, otherwise it is fraught with death.
Causes of the disease
Inflammation of the uterus in a cat is more likely to occur after the age of five. Any animals that have not been spayed are at risk. Thus, the risk of the disease exists both in domestic cats that stay at home without getting out, and in cats that lead a free lifestyle.
Pyometra in cats is a dangerous disease that, in the absence of qualified assistance, can be fatal
The main causes of the disease are:
- sexually transmitted infections;
- various hormonal disruptions;
- diseases of the ovaries and the reproductive system as a whole, inflammatory processes of the genitourinary system;
- uncontrolled use of drugs that suppress estrus (in cats, they lead to changes in hormonal levels and uterine tissues);
- childbirth that took place with complications, unskilled obstetrics, when injuries were caused during childbirth;
- prolonged stay in the uterus of the placenta that was not born on time;
- prolonged stay in the uterus of unborn dead fetuses;
- all kinds of disorders of the immune system, vitamin deficiency, weakening of the protective functions of the body.
Early diagnosis of the disease gives a chance for the possibility of drug treatment without surgery.
For your information! It is during estrus that the uterus becomes very vulnerable to all kinds of bacteria, since the physiological characteristics of leukocytes, which usually create a barrier to pathogenic microflora, are significantly weakened during this period. Thus, the cat's body prepares for a possible pregnancy, instead of which, if sanitary standards are violated, this dangerous disease can develop.
The main symptoms of pyometra
Usually, the main symptoms of the disease appear about 1.5-2 months after estrus, but in some cases it can be a matter of several days or several months.
There are open and closed forms of the disease. Even the open form, due to the special cleanliness of cats, is sometimes difficult to diagnose, since animals constantly lick their genitals. But with a closer examination of the bedding and furniture, you can see the most important sign of an incipient disease - droplets of pus.
Note! Pyometra is a very dangerous and rapidly developing disease, therefore it can sometimes occur without pronounced symptoms. Literally in a matter of days, pus accumulates in the uterine cavity, and in such an amount that it bursts, filling the abdominal cavity, which, in turn, is fraught with the development of sepsis and death.
Routine sterilization is a reliable method of protection against possible disease
With the standard course of the disease, the clinical picture is accompanied by the following symptoms:
- a visible increase in the volume of the abdominal cavity;
- brown, purulent vaginal discharge with an unpleasant odor;
- apathy and general weakness of the animal;
- painful reaction to touching the belly and groin of the animal;
- lack of appetite, sometimes vomiting;
- constant thirst, which intensifies as the painful condition worsens;
- the cat looks disheveled and emaciated;
- hair loss is noted;
- body temperature rises.
Important! With the closed form of pyometra and blurred symptoms, the owners may well not pay attention to the indisposition of their pet, as a rule, in such cases, the animal dies.
Diagnosis of the disease
Whatever the cause of pyometra, timely diagnosis is very important for a positive outcome of the disease. The main and most reliable confirmation of the diagnosis based on clinical symptoms today is ultrasound.
Medical treatment without surgery
When diagnosing pyometra in cats, treatment without surgery is possible, although recently this has been considered ineffective. The method consists in attempts of non-surgical intervention with the help of hormonal drugs, antibiotics and symptomatic therapy to clear the uterine cavity from the pus accumulated in it.
As hormonal drugs, progesterone hormone (for example, alizin) blocking the effect on the uterus is usually prescribed.
Important! The earlier the disease is diagnosed, the more chances you have to save your pet without surgery. But at the same time, there is no guarantee that the inflammatory process will not recur after the next estrus.
Treating pyometra without surgery is a rather risky and expensive method. Usually it is used for early detection and uncomplicated course of the disease, as well as in cases when it comes to purebred and expensive cats, from which they are still planning to get kittens. But it should be remembered that even in the case of a positive outcome of the disease, the cat may remain infertile.
It is quite risky to treat pyometra with a medication, the disease can recur at any time.
If the cat's uterus was not removed, then after complete recovery and a course of restorative therapy, provided that the histology performed is normal, veterinarians advise not to postpone the mating of the animal in order to obtain offspring. After all, there are no guarantees that the disease will not recur and that urgent sterilization will not be required this time.
Among the folk remedies prescribed for pyometra, chamomile, calendula, and nettle are usually used. But decoctions from the listed herbs in no way can act as the only and independent remedy for the disease. They are taken along with the main treatment (medication or surgical), and their main functions are to help relieve pain and inflammation, as well as restore the structure of damaged tissues.
Note! In no case should you self-medicate, even if there are obvious symptoms or the disease, as it seems to the owner, is mild. For any discomfort of the animal, you must definitely contact the veterinarian, otherwise you can ruin your pet.
Surgical treatment of pyometra
The surgical method for treating pyometra is as follows: the uterus of the cat is removed, as well as both ovaries. Most often, this method is the only chance to save the animal.
The surgical method of treating the disease completely excludes the possibility of recurrence of the disease in the future.
Today, the pyometra is removed using the laparoscopic method, and the sutures are applied intradermally. The rehabilitation course after the operation consists of droppers and wearing a special blanket, which, given the structure of the body of cats, will prevent the animal from unnecessary injury.
The open form of pyometra facilitates early diagnosis
In the normal course of the postoperative period, the animal will be healthy in 1-2 weeks. In addition, with this method of treatment, the pet will be insured against a possible recurrence of the disease, as with the drug method.
How to care for your cat after pyometra removal
After the operation, if it was not complicated by ruptures and sepsis, the animal usually recovers quickly. Intradermal sutures do not require removal and special treatment, and if ordinary sutures were applied, then they will need to be washed with special antiseptic agents until the threads are removed.
For your information! To be treated after the operation is to use various drugs aimed at restoring the animal's immunity, eliminating the consequences of the inflammatory process and intoxication of the body.
After the operation, the cat will have to wear a special blanket for about two weeks.
Literally after 7-10 days of course rehabilitation therapy and wearing a blanket, the cat will be healthy. Such operated animals live for a long time. On any forum of pet lovers, there is a lot of confirmation of this - reviews of grateful owners and photos of rescued animals.
Prevention of pyometra
The main and most important way to prevent the disease today is the sterilization of the animal. But we are talking about planned sterilization, and the main condition for this is that the cat must be healthy.
If this option is unacceptable for a number of reasons (young pedigree cats, which must continue the race and give offspring), then you should be very attentive to the health of the pet. It is not necessary to use hormonal preparations without the supervision of a specialist, the sexual relations of a cat should be under special control: there should be no contact with untested cats. In addition, the pet's anatomy involves an ultrasound scan every year, this will be the key to her health in the near future.
Routine examination by a veterinarian is the key to a long life and well-being of your pet
Pyometra in a cat is a dangerous inflammatory disease of the uterus, in which pus accumulates in its cavity. The surest remedy for this disease is the removal of the uterus and ovaries. At the same time, early diagnosis of the disease is important, which sometimes proceeds with a blurred symptomatic picture or in the practical absence of such, therefore it is very important to pay attention to any suspicious behavior of the animal.
The main preventive measures that can prevent the development of this dangerous disease are the control of the use of hormonal drugs, control of the cat's sexual intercourse and routine sterilization. And in order to know for sure that the murka is healthy, at least twice a year, you should undergo scheduled examinations by a veterinarian.
Video
Felines have diseases that affect only females. Inflammation of the uterus in a cat of purulent etiology is one of these diseases. In addition, pyometra is also one of the most dangerous feline pathologies. Ignoring her symptoms or untimely taking therapeutic measures does not leave the animal a chance of recovery.
Pyometra - what is it?
This term in veterinary medicine means the filling of pus in the uterine cavity of the cat. This phenomenon is caused by the ingress of pyogenic microflora (streptococcus, staphylococcus, E. coli) into the uterus of the animal and a violation of the outflow of purulent exudate. Usually, diseases of the organs of the reproductive system in representatives of the feline family are hormone-dependent.
Each cycle, estrogen and progesterone in large quantities affect the endometrium, contributing to the formation of mucus, which is a favorable environment for the reproduction of pathogenic agents. In natural conditions, this process is practically excluded, therefore, purulent inflammation of the uterus is mainly a problem for pets. A regular increase in hormonal levels without fertilization in these animals leads to the formation of cysts and the multiplication of bacteria in the uterine cavity.
Causes of pyometra in cats
Inflammation of the uterus of a cat of purulent etiology is caused by:
- hormonal disruption;
- disruption of the immune system;
- delivery in unsanitary conditions;
- injuries sustained during childbirth;
- the use of hormonal drugs aimed at suppressing sexual desire for males;
- not completely cured diseases of the genitourinary system;
- uncontrolled mating;
- sexual intercourse with unhealthy partners.
Most susceptible to this disease are females who have given birth over 5 years and have not given birth after 3 years. In some cases, pyometra can be the result of a sedentary lifestyle and injuries to the pelvic bones.
Symptoms of purulent inflammation of the uterus
The insidiousness of this disease lies in the fact that the appearance of pus in the cat's uterus does not give itself out for a long time. The clinical picture depends on the form of the disease. The pyometra is open and closed. In order to recognize the symptoms of pathology in time, you need to know how each type of disease manifests itself. Detailed information on this is presented in the table:
| Feline pyometra shapes | Description | Symptoms |
| Closed | The outflow of purulent exudate from the uterine cavity is disturbed due to the closure of the cervix. |
|
| Open | After infection, the uterine neck remains open, so the outflow of pus is not disturbed. |
|
Diagnostics in the veterinary clinic
Treatment is prescribed only after an accurate diagnosis has been made. First, the veterinarian examines and feels the four-legged patient. Information about what the cat was sick with before, whether she gave birth or not, how long ago the first symptoms of the disease appeared, will help the doctor diagnose. Information on how the diagnosis is usually carried out is presented in the table:
| Diagnostic measures | Purpose of the | The result of the procedure if the cat has pyometra | |
| Laboratory | Blood test | Determination of the number of leukocytes, urea, protein, globulin. | Hyperproteinemia, leukocytosis, hyperglobulemia, left shift of the leukocyte formula, increased urea levels up to 300 mg. |
| Analysis of urine | Evaluation of the specific gravity, determination of protein levels and the presence of pathogenic bacteria. | Proteinuria, bacteriuria, decreased urine specific gravity. | |
| Instrumental | Ultrasound of the pelvic organs | Assessment of the state of the organs under study, exclusion of pregnancy. | The uterus is greatly enlarged, its walls are thickened, there are cystic formations. |
In some cases, a four-legged patient is prescribed an X-ray. However, this diagnostic procedure with an open uterine cervix may be ineffective due to the gradual self-excretion of pus.
Treatment of purulent inflammation of the uterus in cats
Inflammation of the uterus of purulent etiology is treated conservatively or surgically. Some veterinarians consider the first method to be ineffective. Their skepticism is confirmed by statistics:
- three out of four patients recover in the early stages of the disease, one out of four - with advanced forms of the disease;
- half of the cats treated with drugs relapse after the next estrous cycle;
- in 7% of cases, animals become infertile after drug treatment.
Therapy with veterinary drugs
Medication is used only when it is necessary to preserve the ability of the pet to reproduce. At the same time, the veterinarian carefully weighs the pros and cons. Drug therapy is not only not considered sparing, it is not always acceptable and is used exclusively in the initial stages of the disease. The table shows the standard treatment regimen for pyometra:
| Groups of drugs | Drug names | Notes (edit) |
| Hormonal | Oxytocin | The use of this hormonal agent, which causes contraction of the uterus and thereby facilitates the release of pus, must be extremely careful. Violation of the dosage can lead to rupture of the uterus and death of the animal. |
| Antibacterial | Brulamycin | The antibiotic is administered intramuscularly. |
| Amoxicillin | ||
| Ceftriaxone | ||
| Synthetic prostaglandins | Cloprostenol | The agent is injected subcutaneously. |
| Immunomodulatory | Imunofan, Ribotan | Immunomodulators are administered subcutaneously or intramuscularly. |
Surgery to remove the uterus
If, in the treatment of most diseases, the surgical method is resorted to only in extreme cases, with pyometra, surgery is more preferable than an extreme measure. This method of therapy involves the removal of the ovaries and uterus. If the disease is detected at an early stage, surgical intervention will not be more difficult than standard castration. If the disease was diagnosed late, the surgeon will have to work hard, calling on all the skills and knowledge to help.
In any case, the operative method increases the likelihood of recovery by 90%. The operation is performed under general anesthesia, so the four-legged patient does not feel pain. After the procedure, the cat is left with a 2-3 cm scar. The seam grows together quickly and does not interfere with the animal. Usually, antibacterial and immunomodulatory drugs are used after surgery.
Will folk remedies help?
It is strictly forbidden to treat purulent inflammation of the uterus with folk remedies. They cannot eliminate the symptoms of the disease and will only lead to an aggravation of the situation. Decoctions and infusions of medicinal plants can only be used as maintenance therapy together with medications and after removal of the uterus and ovaries.
In the treatment of pyometra, decoctions and infusions made from chamomile and calendula are used to stop the inflammatory process and restore the affected tissues. Infusion or decoction of nettle is used in the postoperative period as a hemostatic agent.
Nuances of the course and therapy of pyometra in pregnant and lambing cats
This disease is sometimes detected in pregnant pets. Diagnosing pyometra is complicated by the fact that it is often confused with pregnancy, since one of its symptoms is an enlarged abdomen. Often in a cat that is bearing cubs, the disease is detected at a later stage. Usually the offspring cannot be saved, but in most cases the mother can be saved.
If pyometra was detected in an animal immediately after childbirth, when pathogens entered the open uterus during delivery, or the appearance of pus was provoked by an unreleased afterbirth, it is important to start treatment before the onset of estrus. In this situation, they resort to conservative therapy, after which the female retains the ability to reproduce. Often, after recovery, a pet brings healthy offspring.
Caring for sick and operated animals
Caring for the patient and the operated patient is designed to accelerate recovery, alleviate her condition and prevent the emergence of postoperative complications. It is necessary to take care of her, observing the following recommendations:
- Place the animal in a warm, draft-free area.
- Provide the pet with complete rest. You should not go into the room in which she is too often. It is also necessary to exclude the stay of other pets in it.
- Put a blanket on the cat (see photo) so that it does not lick the seam.
- Treat the seam with an antiseptic compound daily. If they decay or inflammation, you must immediately show the animal to the veterinarian. If the uterus has been removed by the laparoscopic method, which involves the imposition of intradermal sutures, they do not need to be cared for.
