The procedure typically follows these steps:
1. Pre-operative Preparation:
- The cat undergoes general anesthesia to ensure they are comfortable and pain-free during the surgery.
- The surgical area, usually the abdomen, is shaved and sterilized to minimize the risk of infection.
- Intravenous fluids may be administered to maintain hydration and provide anesthesia support.
2. Surgical Approach:
- Based on the cat's anatomy and the surgeon's preference, either a midline or lateral approach may be used.
- In the midline approach, an incision is made along the center of the abdomen, while in the lateral approach, the incision is made on the side of the abdomen.
3. Accessing the Bladder:
- The surgeon carefully separates the abdominal muscles and tissues to reach the bladder.
- The bladder is identified, and a small incision is made in the bladder wall.
4. Bladder Examination and Treatment:
- Once the bladder is opened, the surgeon examines the interior for any abnormalities, such as stones, inflammation, or tumors.
- If bladder stones are present, they are carefully removed using specialized instruments.
- If there are other conditions affecting the bladder, the appropriate treatment is performed, such as suturing tears or removing any diseased tissue.
5. Bladder Closure:
- After the stones are removed or the condition is addressed, the bladder incision is closed with sutures to ensure proper healing.
6. Post-operative Care:
- The cat is closely monitored post-surgery to ensure proper recovery from anesthesia.
- Antibiotics and pain medication may be prescribed to prevent infections and manage discomfort.
- A urinary catheter may be placed temporarily to allow for continuous drainage of urine while the bladder heals.
Feline cystotomy is a delicate procedure that requires skill and experience from the veterinarian. It is typically recommended when non-invasive treatments, such as dietary modifications or medications, have failed to resolve the underlying bladder issues.