pyometra in cats

Pyometra in cats is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition that primarily affects unspayed female felines. This condition involves a bacterial infection of the uterus, causing it to fill with pus. Left untreated, pyometra can result in sepsis, organ failure, and death. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for pyometra in cats is crucial for every cat owner, especially those with unspayed female cats. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about pyometra in cats, including how to recognize it, how it is treated, and ways to prevent it.
What is Pyometra in Cats?
Pyometra in cats is an infection of the uterus that occurs primarily in unspayed female felines, although it can occur in any female cat at any age. The infection causes the uterus to become filled with pus, resulting in significant medical complications. Pyometra is categorized into two types:

- Open Pyometra in Cats: In this form, the cervix is open, allowing pus to drain through the vaginal canal. Cats with open pyometra may exhibit noticeable vaginal discharge, which could be yellow, green, or bloody in color.
- Closed Pyometra in Cats: This form is more dangerous because the cervix is closed, preventing the pus from draining out. The accumulation of pus leads to uterine distension, and the infection may spread throughout the abdomen, resulting in a more severe systemic infection and sepsis.
Causes and Risk Factors of Pyometra in Cats
The main cause of pyometra in cats is a bacterial infection, typically caused by Escherichia coli (E. coli). However, several hormonal changes in a cat’s reproductive system make the uterus more vulnerable to these infections. The hormone progesterone plays a crucial role in this process. When a cat enters heat (estrus), progesterone levels increase, causing the uterus to undergo changes that make it more susceptible to bacterial infections if the cat does not become pregnant.
The following are common risk factors for pyometra in cats:
- Age: Older unspayed female cats (typically over 5 years) are at higher risk, especially those that have experienced multiple estrus cycles.
- Unspayed Female Cats: Unspayed female cats are the most at-risk group. The longer a cat remains unspayed, the greater her chances of developing feline pyometra.
- Hormonal Imbalances: Cats treated with synthetic hormones, such as progestins used to suppress heat cycles, have a higher likelihood of developing feline pyometra.
- Previous Pregnancies: Cats that have previously been pregnant may have an increased risk of pyometra due to changes in their reproductive system.
Symptoms of Pyometra in Cats
The symptoms of pyometra in cats can vary depending on whether the cat has open or closed pyometra. Common symptoms include:
Open Pyometra Symptoms:
- Vaginal Discharge: Cats with open pyometra often show a yellow, green, or bloody vaginal discharge. The discharge typically has a foul odor due to the infection.
- Increased Thirst and Urination: Cats may drink excessive amounts of water and urinate more frequently due to the infection affecting kidney function.
- Lethargy: Affected cats may become lethargic, appear weak, and show little interest in usual activities.
- Loss of Appetite: A decrease in appetite is common, and affected cats may stop eating altogether.
- Vomiting: In severe cases, vomiting can occur as the infection spreads.
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Closed Pyometra Symptoms:
- Abdominal Distension: In cases of closed pyometra, the abdomen may become swollen or bloated as the uterus fills with pus.
- Pain and Discomfort: Cats may show signs of abdominal pain, such as vocalizing or refusing to be touched.
- Fever: An elevated body temperature is typical of an ongoing infection.
- Systemic Illness: If the infection spreads, it can lead to septic shock, organ failure, and death.
Diagnosis of Pyometra in Cats
To diagnose pyometra in cats, a veterinarian will typically perform a combination of a physical examination, imaging studies, and laboratory tests:
- Physical Examination: The vet will check for signs of abdominal distension, fever, dehydration, and any other clinical signs that suggest an infection or systemic illness.
- Ultrasound: Ultrasound is the most effective imaging technique to confirm pyometra. It allows the vet to visualize the size of the uterus and check whether it is filled with fluid (pus), helping to distinguish between open and closed pyometra.
- X-Rays: While ultrasound is preferred, X-rays may also be used to check for an enlarged uterus. However, this method does not offer as much detail as ultrasound.
- Blood Tests: Blood work can help identify signs of infection (elevated white blood cell count) and assess kidney function, which may be compromised by the infection.
- Urinalysis: A urine test can identify kidney function and the presence of infection in the urinary tract.
Treatment Options for Pyometra in Cats
The treatment of pyometra in cats depends on the severity of the condition and whether the cat is stable enough for surgery. There are two main treatment options:
Surgical Treatment: Ovariohysterectomy
The gold standard for treating pyometra in cats is surgery. An ovariohysterectomy (spaying) involves the removal of the uterus and ovaries, which not only eliminates the infection but also prevents future occurrences.
- Procedure: The surgery is performed under general anesthesia, and the vet will remove the uterus and ovaries. This is the most effective treatment for pyometra cat cases and has a high success rate.
- Post-Operative Care: After surgery, cats will need to rest and receive pain relief and antibiotics to prevent infection. The recovery period is usually 1-2 weeks.
Medical Treatment: Antibiotics and Prostaglandins
In certain cases, such as when the cat is too old or weak for surgery, medical treatment may be considered. This usually involves a combination of antibiotics and prostaglandins:
- Antibiotics: Broad-spectrum antibiotics are given to fight the bacterial infection.
- Prostaglandins: These are medications that help to contract the uterus and expel the pus. This treatment is generally only effective for open pyometra and carries a higher risk of recurrence compared to surgery.
While medical treatment can be an option, pyometra surgery is generally recommended due to its higher success rate.
Prognosis and Recovery After Pyometra Treatment
The prognosis for a cat with pyometra depends largely on how quickly the condition is diagnosed and treated. In general, the earlier the condition is detected and treated, the better the chances of recovery.
- Surgical Recovery: Cats that undergo ovariohysterectomy typically have a high survival rate, especially if the infection has not spread extensively. Pain management and antibiotics are essential to ensure a smooth recovery.
- Medical Treatment Recovery: Cats treated with medication may require more extended care, and there is a higher risk of the infection returning. Monitoring for signs of recurrence is crucial.
Prevention of Pyometra in Cats
The most effective way to prevent pyometra in cats is to spay your cat. Spaying removes the ovaries and uterus, effectively eliminating the risk of pyometra and other reproductive diseases.
- Spaying: It’s recommended to spay your cat before she reaches sexual maturity (typically around 5-6 months). Spaying not only prevents pyometra but also reduces the risk of ovarian and uterine cancer.
- Hormonal Control: If you are not ready to spay your cat, hormonal treatments can prevent her from going into heat. However, these medications can increase the risk of pyometra over time and are not a permanent solution.
Conclusion
Pyometra in cats is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition that can be prevented with proper care. Spaying your cat is the best way to eliminate the risk of pyometra and other reproductive health issues. If you notice any symptoms of pyometra in your cat, such as vaginal discharge, lethargy, or abdominal swelling, it’s important to seek veterinary care immediately. Timely diagnosis and treatment, whether through surgery or medical management, are crucial to ensuring your cat’s health and safety.
How do I know if my cat has pyometra?
The symptoms of pyometra in cats can vary, but common signs include:
Vaginal discharge (yellow, green, or bloody) if the pyometra is open.
Abdominal swelling and pain (in closed pyometra).
Increased thirst and urination due to kidney involvement.
Lethargy, loss of appetite, and vomiting.
If you notice these symptoms, it’s essential to take your cat to the vet immediately for a proper diagnosis, which typically involves physical exams, ultrasound, and blood tests.
How long can a cat live with pyometra?
If left untreated, pyometra in cats can be fatal within days or weeks due to sepsis or organ failure. However, with timely treatment (typically through surgery or in some cases, antibiotics and prostaglandins), most cats recover well. The sooner the condition is diagnosed and treated, the better the chances of survival. If treated early, a cat can live a normal life after recovery.
What are the first signs of pyometra?
The first signs of pyometra in cats often include:
Lethargy and loss of appetite.
Increased thirst and urination.
Vaginal discharge (only in open pyometra).
Abdominal distension (in severe cases, particularly in closed pyometra).
If any of these early signs appear, immediate veterinary attention is needed to confirm the diagnosis and prevent the infection from spreading.
Can antibiotics cure pyometra in cats?
Antibiotics alone may not fully cure pyometra in cats, especially in closed pyometra. Antibiotics are used to treat the bacterial infection, but the infection is often localized in the uterus, and the pus-filled uterus needs to be drained. In some cases, prostaglandin medications may be used to contract the uterus and expel the infection. However, surgery (spaying) is generally considered the most effective and definitive treatment for pyometra, especially in more severe cases.
What is the best treatment for a pyometra?
The best treatment for pyometra in cats is surgical intervention (an ovariohysterectomy, or spay). During this procedure, the infected uterus and ovaries are removed, eliminating the infection and preventing recurrence. Surgery is the most effective treatment, especially in closed pyometra or severe cases. Medical treatment (antibiotics and prostaglandins) may be considered in some cases, but surgery is generally recommended for the best long-term outcome.
Do cats bleed when in heat?
Yes, female cats can experience vaginal bleeding during their heat cycle (estrus). The bleeding is usually light and may appear as a small amount of spotting. This is normal and part of the estrus cycle. However, if a cat shows excessive bleeding or bloody discharge outside of heat, it could be a sign of an infection or other health issue, such as pyometra. Always consult a veterinarian if you notice abnormal or heavy bleeding in your cat.