Pyometra (Uterine Infection)

Pyometra (Uterine Infection)

Species: Cat

Breeds Affected: All breeds (intact females only)

A life-threatening infection of the uterus that typically occurs a few weeks after estrus. The uterus becomes filled with pus (open if draining, closed if retained), most often affecting middle-aged to older unspayed queens.

• Lethargy
• depression
• high fever (sometimes)
• increased thirst and urination
• loss of appetite
• and in open pyometra
• foul-smelling vaginal discharge. In closed pyometra
• the abdomen may become distended and painful
• with vomiting and dehydration possible.

Prompt surgical removal of the uterus and ovaries (ovariohysterectomy) is the treatment of choice after stabilization with IV fluids and antibiotics. In breeding queens, medical management with prostaglandins is occasionally attempted, but surgery remains standard.

Broad-spectrum IV antibiotics (eg, ampicillin or cefazolin) for infection control; prostaglandins (eg, PGF2alpha) in select cases; post-operative pain medications (opioids or NSAIDs); supportive IV fluids; emergency management of sepsis if indicated.