FR
ENWhat is feline pyometra?
Under the influence of hormones (primarily progesterone), the uterus of an unspayed cat can become the site of a severe bacterial infection: pus accumulates inside, causing inflammation and systemic toxicity. Although less common in cats than in dogs, feline pyometra is equally dangerous.
Two forms to distinguish
The distinction matters clinically: an open-cervix form presents earlier; a closed-cervix form is often more severe because the infection stays trapped inside.
Pus can drain out
- Purulent vulvar discharge, sometimes bloody
- Unpleasant odor may be noticeable
- Diagnosis is often easier: the discharge alerts the owner
- Still an emergency: infection is active and the uterus remains distended
Pus is trapped inside
- No visible vulvar discharge
- Distended abdomen, painful on palpation
- High risk of uterine rupture and peritonitis
- More guarded prognosis: infection is invisible, often diagnosed later
Why does this happen?
After each hormonal cycle, progesterone prepares the uterus to support a pregnancy. In an unspayed cat cycling repeatedly without becoming pregnant, the uterine lining thickens excessively (cystic endometrial hyperplasia). This altered lining becomes an ideal environment for bacterial growth (often Escherichia coli). The risk increases with age and the number of cycles the cat has experienced.
Signs and symptoms
Symptoms evolve depending on the form (open or closed cervix) and how quickly the infection progresses. Here is how to recognize them, from subtle early signals to a clear emergency.
Early stage
- Mild drop in energy; less enthusiastic
- Reduced appetite
- Drinking more often (polydipsia)
- More frequent urination or accidents outside the litter box
- Slightly elevated or fluctuating temperature
Intermediate stage
- Thick, yellowish or reddish vulvar discharge (open cervix)
- Distended, tender abdomen on palpation (closed cervix)
- Vomiting, possible diarrhea
- More pronounced lethargy
- Visible weight loss
Advanced stage
- Severe depression, collapse
- Marked dehydration
- Persistent foul odor around the vulva
- Very little or no urine output (kidney failure)
- Pale gums, rapid breathing (septic shock)
- Inability to stand or walk
These signs: go to the vet immediately
Pyometra can progress to septic shock within hours. Every hour matters. Contact your veterinarian or an emergency clinic right away if you observe any of the following:
- Abundant vulvar discharge, foul-smelling or greenish/brown in color
- Visibly distended and painful abdomen; the cat refuses to be touched
- Repeated vomiting or uncontrollable diarrhea
- Pale or whitish gums, rapid heart rate, labored or rapid breathing
- Inability to get up, collapse, blank stare
- No urine output for more than 12 hours despite normal or increased water intake
How is the diagnosis made?
The diagnosis of pyometra is based on a combination of clinical history, physical examination, and complementary tests. The earlier it is made, the better the cat's chances.
Clinical signs and history
Unspayed female, age, last heat cycle, vulvar discharge: the veterinarian reconstructs the picture. Polydipsia and lethargy in an unspayed cat over 5 years old should always raise suspicion of pyometra.
Physical examination
Abdominal palpation to assess uterine size and tenderness. Examination of mucous membranes (gums), heart rate, and temperature to detect shock or sepsis.
Blood work
Complete blood count: leukocytosis (significant increase in white blood cells) is typically found. Biochemistry panel to assess kidney and liver function, often impaired by the infection.
Urinalysis
Assesses kidney function and detects proteinuria or concurrent urinary infection. Low urine specific gravity often indicates the kidneys are already being challenged by bacterial toxins.
Abdominal ultrasound
The reference exam: directly visualizes the fluid-filled (pus) uterus, evaluates wall thickness, and measures the extent of distension. Essential before any surgical decision.
Treatment options
Surgery is the treatment of choice in the vast majority of cases. Medical treatment is only considered in very specific situations. Here is why.
Supportive care (in all cases)
- IV fluid therapy to correct dehydration and support circulation
- Broad-spectrum antibiotics, adjusted based on bacterial culture when available
- Analgesics if pain is confirmed
- Close monitoring of kidney function
What to expect?
The prognosis depends above all on the speed of intervention and the cat's general condition at the time of presentation.
Post-surgical recovery is generally well tolerated. Most cats return to normal life within 10 to 14 days. Following post-operative care, including wound monitoring and completing the full antibiotic course, is essential.
Management, recovery, and prevention
After surgery: the recovery period
- Give all prescribed medications to completion, even if the cat seems well
- Inspect the incision site daily: excessive redness, swelling, discharge, or opening must be reported
- Limit jumping and intense activity for 10 to 14 days (stairs, high furniture)
- Keep the litter box clean and easily accessible without effort
- Encourage hydration: fresh water at all times; water from a fountain if the cat refuses to drink
- Offer appealing food, slightly warmed if partial anorexia persists
- Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments (day 7 minimum)
Signs to monitor after surgery
- Fever (cat feels hot, is prostrate, refuses to eat)
- Open, bleeding, or weeping wound
- Persistent vomiting or diarrhea more than 24 hours after surgery
- No urine output or very dark urine
The best protection: spaying
Spaying (ovariohysterectomy or ovariectomy) performed before the first heat or early in adult life is the only fully reliable prevention against pyometra. It also eliminates the risk of mammary tumors and other hormone-dependent conditions. If your cat is unspayed and not intended for breeding, spaying is the single most protective decision you can make for her long-term health.
Frequently asked questions
My cat has vaginal discharge: does it definitely mean pyometra?
My cat is young (2 or 3 years old): can she get pyometra?
My cat was treated medically for pyometra. Can she have kittens afterward?
Why are the kidneys often affected by pyometra?
Is spaying still useful if my cat has already had pyometra?
How much does pyometra surgery cost?
This guide is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute veterinary medical advice and is not a substitute for a consultation with a qualified veterinarian. Every animal is unique and their health must be evaluated individually. If you have concerns about your pet's health, contact our clinic or consult a veterinarian promptly.