Traumatic urethral tear in the cat: how to treat it
2-year-old male cat with a pelvic fracture after a fall. He is stabilised. Retrograde urethrography shows contrast leakage from the pelvic urethra with partial urethral continuity, and a catheter can be passed into the bladder.
What is the treatment of choice?
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A. Urgent surgical anastomosis of the pelvic urethra
The pelvic urethra is difficult to access (it may require pubic osteotomy) and surgery carries a risk of stricture. In partial tears where a catheter can be passed, it is not the first option.
B. Leave an indwelling urethral catheter for several days (1–2 weeks) so the urethra heals over it
Correct. Partial tears usually heal over the catheter, which diverts urine and acts as a stent. Urethrography is repeated before removal to confirm there is no leakage. Watch for stricture formation.
C. Immediate perineal urethrostomy
Perineal urethrostomy bypasses the penile urethra but does not resolve a tear in the pelvic urethra, which lies cranial to the stoma.
D. Avoid catheterisation and empty the bladder by repeated cystocentesis
Repeated cystocentesis does not stop urine leaking through the urethra during micturition and risks bladder injury. If a catheter cannot be passed, the alternative is a cystostomy tube.
lightbulb Key takeaway
In urethral rupture: partial tear with a catheter that passes, indwelling catheter; if it does not pass, a cystostomy tube to divert urine and delayed surgery if needed. Look for urinary injuries with every pelvic fracture.
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Updated: October 31, 2026 · Educational content for veterinary professionals. It does not replace current clinical guidelines or the judgement of the attending veterinarian.