Pyometra in Cats

Pyometra describes a pus filled, infected uterus. It is a life threatening condition that requires emergency stabilization and surgery for treatment. Intact (non-spayed) female cats are at risk for developing pyometra.

Cats only ovulate after mating, so pyometra should only occur after a sterile mating. However, it can occur after mild stimulation, enough to induce progesterone production. Pyometra in cats is uncommon in the months in which cats' heat cycles are inactive (September-December).

Pyometra can be defined as open (draining pus out of the vagina through an open cervix) or closed (pus is trapped in the uterus due to a closed cervix). Closed pyometras are more dangerous, since the infection is trapped in the cat's body.

The infection is not only life threatening on its own, but it can also cause kidney failure through bacterial toxins.