Must penis be removed because of blockage?

[Turkeykitty]

Hello, this is my first post. My good friend's cat Nane was taken to the vet because it had a piece of sand stuck in its urethra, which was originally a kidney problem. It seems cats in Turkey are likely to have kidney problems, for some reason. Anyway, the vet's solution was to have the penis cut off. That sounds ridiculous to me, and this guy is supposed to be a good vet. I am looking around for a different vet, because I go to him too for my cat, but I want your opinion. Apart from the question of veterinary care one could find in Istanbul (unless you know about this, that would be great), doesn't this sound unnecessarily extreme? Please let me know. Thanks.

[jason]

doesn't this sound unnecessarily extreme? Please let me know. Thanks.

no. in some cases a p/u (cant spell it..i'll try : perineal urethrostomy, fix it Traci) must be performed or the blockage will be fatal within a short time (less the 3 days perhaps).

i have a cat that had this done. he is doing great now, his personality has not changed in the slightest, other than he is now happier since the pain is gone.

only a vet with proper information will be able to suggest the p/u procedure if needed.

[Traci]

It isn't "cutting off the penis" per se, it is called a perineal urethrostomy, a surgical procedure that shortens the urethra to allow for a wider urethra in which urine flow is established and small crystals can be passed. It is a surgical consideration for cats with a history of repeated blockages, crystals, FLUTD that is unable to be managed by diet or meds. While the surgery is successful for most cats, some cats may still develop crystals or urinary tract bacterial infections. The surgery may be a curative method for blockages (large crystals) only.

It is also a surgical procedure that should only be considered once diet and medication have failed or with a history of repeated blockages that threaten the health and life of the cat. If the vet you're referring to has experience in this procedure, case histories and has performed this procedure before with success, then your friend simply needs to discuss it further with the vet so she understands what is involved and what to expect. If the vet is NOT experienced in P/U surgery, then yes, find a vet who is.

[davet]

done a few before for experience..it is usually the best answer for a cat that blocks two times...or at least that was my philosophy. block twice, curgery the thired time...there is also another procedure where the pehis (urethra) is passout through the lower abdomin..but it is used rarely and then only on spedfice cases....but let your vet be your guide cause he/she/it is on the scene and can better evaluate.....

[Turkeycat]

Thanks for your replies. You've all been very helpful.