The urinary problems are not to be overlooked when it comes to the health of your cat. Ureteral obstructions are blockages that prevent urine from moving from the kidney to the bladder. It is common in cats, particularly in male cats and breeds such as Persians. When not addressed promptly, these blockages can prove fatal. For years, conventional ureteral surgery was the only choice of treatment. However, recently, veterinary experts have turned to a more recent option, one that is less invasive and sometimes more effective: the Subureteral Bypass (SUB).
This article will explain why subureteral bypass cat surgery is a better option than other treatments, enabling you to make an informed decision for your cat’s health.
What Is a Sub-Ureteral Bypass (SUB)?
If the normal ureter, which leads from the kidney to the bladder, becomes blocked, the SUB device bypasses the blockage, allowing urine to circulate. It involves a short, flexible tube that serves as a bypass route from the kidney to the bladder. It also features a port through which veterinarians can flush the system, ensuring all components are functioning properly.
Benefits of Subureteral Bypass Cat
Subureteral bypass cat surgeryoffers the following benefits:
Less Invasive Procedure
Common ureter surgery involves cutting into small, delicate structures. Cats have very small ureters, measuring only a strand of thread in diameter; fixing them surgically is both difficult and risky. In comparison, minimally invasive surgery involving advanced imaging is applicable in SUB surgery. It implies:
- Reduced time of surgery
- Reduced risks of complications
- Improved operative accuracy
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Better Success Rates, Fewer Complications
One of the primary reasons a veterinary clinic prefers the SUB is that it is more effective in many cases. Traditional surgery has a higher risk of post-operative complications like scarring or re-blockage. SUB has shown noticeable benefits such as:
- Higher long-term success rates
- Lower risk of re-obstruction
- Fewer repeat surgeries
Ideal for Cats with Recurrent Issues
Some cats develop multiple ureteral obstructions over time, typically due to the formation of kidney stones. Traditional surgery may be effective initially, but it becomes riskier and less effective with each subsequent operation. Many veterinary clinics favor the SUB due to its:
- More adaptable to repeated problems
- Easier to maintain
- More durable in the long run
Faster Recovery Means Less Stress
Traditional ureteral surgery often comes with a longer hospital stay and more recovery time under close watch. With SUB surgery, most cats recover faster and experience less discomfort during the post-operative period. It implies:
- Less time at the vet
- Quicker return to eating, playing, and purring
- Fewer medications and follow-ups
Cost-Effective in the Long Run
SUB surgery can be an expensive investment. But let’s compare:
Traditional Surgery
- Multiple surgeries possible
- Higher complication rates
- Repeat hospital visits
- Higher medication needs
SUB Surgery
- Single well-managed procedure
- Less chance of repeat issues
- Easier follow-ups
- Long-term device monitoring
When you add up the long-term medical costs, SUB often proves to be more cost-effective than going the traditional route multiple times.
Backed by Leading Veterinary Specialists
If you’re looking for expert-level care, SUB is often the top recommendation. Only skilled and certified veterinary surgeons are qualified to perform SUB procedures. A veterinary clinic with advanced imaging and surgical capabilities considers SUB a gold standard for many ureteral conditions. These professionals are trained to:
- Place the SUB device accurately
- Monitor it over time
- Teach you how to care for your cat after the procedure
Give Your Cat the Best Chance at a Healthy Life
Urinary blockages are serious, but they’re not the end of the road. With the subureteral bypass, cats now have a safer and more effective way to overcome these life-threatening conditions. The advantages of SUB against conventional ureter surgery are difficult to resist: the risk is lower, the outcome is more successful, and recovery is less painful. Consult your veterinarian regarding the SUB surgery if your cat is experiencing a ureteral obstruction.
If you are looking for a leading veterinary clinic in the UAE, the British Veterinary Centre provides comprehensive animal care with advanced treatment facilities. Our doctors possess extensive expertise in treating various conditions with the highest quality care and state-of-the-art equipment.
