Is there a way to treat pyometra in a cat without surgery?

Our question this week was:

My cat has vaginal discharge. I think it might be a pyometra. What do I do?? I don’t have a lot of money. But what I know about pyometra the cat should be sick. My cat eats/drinks/pee’s/poops. Still plays with my 80lb dog. I don’t know what to do. If you could give me some ideas I would be grateful.

Kate Combs

Answer

Hi – thanks for your email Kate. You wrote that your intact/unspayed cat is having vaginal discharge and you are suspecting an infection called Pyometra. The BEST treatment is surgery. If you don’t do it now – she could die. If she lives (if it is an open pyometra successfully treated with antibiotics- then will probably get it again and need spayed then).

I’d recommend that you call you vet . First he needs to confirm the diagnosis, it may be a pyometra or vaginitis – see if they can work out a payment plan. Alternatively – try your shelter or humane society. This is important. Pets are a responsibility and with that come expenses when they get sick.

Articles that might be helpful to you are Pyometra in Catsand Vaginitis in Cats. These articles explain the diagnosis and treatment of these diseases.

Best of luck!

Dr. Debra

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