Our Vets are Available 🟢
The logo for Dial A Vet, the online vet company.
Pet Health
Blogs
Dog HealthCat HealthVeterinary ServicesPet Health
ask a vet
Ask A Vet Q&A - Free!
resources
Free Symptom CheckerDial A Vet NZFind a Local Vet Clinic
about DIAL A VET
Terms & Conditions
Privacy PolicyEditorial Guidelines
View all Blogs
Over 6,000 Articles
View All Q&A
5,000+ Answers
Resources
Lorem ipsum dolor
PricingHow it WorksContact
Chat to a Vet

Question:

Post-OP PU surgery cat blocked again

I'm reaching out because I'm feeling really overwhelmed and could use some advice. My cat, Oliver, had PU surgery about six months ago after he kept getting urinary blockages, and we thought we were finally in the clear. I’ve been so careful with his diet, making sure he stays hydrated, and giving him all the attention he needs, but last night he started straining again and hasn't been himself. I'm scared he's blocked again. We rushed to the vet, and they confirmed my worst fears. Has anyone else been through this? I’m just worried about him having to go through more surgeries or long-term issues. Any suggestions or tips would be really appreciated right now. Thanks for letting me vent.

Answer:

Hello there! I'm so sorry to hear that you're dealing with this issue so soon after your cat's surgery. A perineal urethrostomy (PU) is usually performed to reduce the risk of urinary blockages, but occasionally, complications can occur.



There are a few possible reasons your cat might be experiencing another blockage. Scar tissue formation at the surgical site can sometimes narrow the urethra. Inflammation and swelling can also contribute, especially in the early post-operative phase. Additionally, stones, crystals, or mucus plugs may still be forming in the urinary tract, although the surgery is designed to minimize these issues.



At home, ensure your cat is drinking plenty of water to help flush the bladder and keep urine dilute. Consider providing a mix of wet and dry food to increase hydration. Keep your cat calm and comfortable, limiting activity to prevent additional stress on the healing site.



Watch closely for signs of a more serious issue, such as straining to urinate, blood in the urine, or not urinating at all. These symptoms require immediate veterinary attention, as they can quickly lead to severe complications.



I recommend booking a video consult with one of our veterinarians at Dial A Vet. They'll be able to assess your cat's situation more thoroughly and provide guidance tailored to your furry friend's needs. Take care!

Answered by

Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet

June 20, 2025

  Book A Vet Consultation
The "Ask a Vet" forum on Dial A Vet offers general information and helpful tips on pet health, but it's not a substitute for professional veterinary care. The advice here doesn't create a veterinarian-client-patient relationship, and our vets can't diagnose or treat your pet remotely. For emergencies or specific medical concerns, always contact your local veterinarian immediately. Your pet's health is unique, and decisions should only be made after consulting with a qualified professional. By using this forum, you acknowledge these limitations and agree to seek in-person veterinary advice for all your pet's health needs. View our content guidelines.
🧠 Related Pet Owner Questions
Idiopathic chylothorax, fluid every 2-3 days. How many chest taps?
Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Sudden concerning symptoms in dog w/ CHF starting furosemide
Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Cats & steroids (the M E O W edition)
Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Cat in her last 24 hours of life - ok to stop some meds?
Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Money Magazine
Australia's Leading
Online Vet
TrustPilot:
Excellent
Real Vets

Thousands of Pet Owners across the Globe rely on Dial A Vet for peace of mind.

Real questions, vet reviewed answers and quality care.

Trusted by 40,000+ users
4.7/5
dog in grass
Ina
Pet Owner

It was so easy, I needed some eye drops for my dog and thinking about going to the vet on a weekend made me nervous about the cost involved. Dial A Vet was a much simpler, cheaper option with faster results. Within 10 minutes of the call, I had the medicine I needed for my dog without an expensive consultation.

25 May 2025
Joanne
Pet Owner

A great fast efficient service with a qualified vet who was lovely and helpful. Thank you Samantha. I was able to sort my dog at 6pm on a Sunday night for $49 - amazing. Highly recommend.

12 May 2025
Lisa
Pet Owner

What an amazing service, at my wits end as I knew my beautiful dog had an ear infection, could not get into the vet for 4 days. Never knew there was vets online until I googled. Within 15 minutes on a Sunday I was taking to beautiful Samantha who diagnosed and treated our Jasper. Only $49. She trusted that we knew our boy and gave us lots of advice. I will definitely be using dial a vet every time and sharing with all my friends and family. Absolutely fantastic kind caring service. 11/10

7 April 2025
The logo for Dial A Vet, the online vet company.

With Dial A Vet, expert veterinary advice is just a tap away. Get fast vet consultations, trusted care, and personalized pet support—anytime, anywhere, all year round.

Dial A Vets uses software that is HIPAA compliant and SOC - 2 Certified.

support@dialavet.com.au

dial a vet owner with cat
dial a vet pet owner with dog in a orange top
colourful pet owner with their dog
40k+
Pet Owners
Fluffy stuff
Terms & ConditionsPrivacy policy
Company
How It WorksPricingBlogFree Online VetOnline VetPet Symptom CheckerFind a Local Vet ClinicFree Teachers lesson plansGasTexts: Free Gas Prices TextedCheersVC
NEW ZEALAND
Speak to A Vet NZ
Our Social Links