Family Vet Limited
A big part of our local community - Our Veterinary Practice has been an integral part of our local community since February 2010. In that time, we’ve helped thousands of our clients cats & dogs, rabbits, rats and even a few birds.
Pyometra surgery is an emergency life-saving procedure to remove an infected uterus and ovaries (ovariohysterectomy) in unspayed female dogs or cats. Pyometra is a serious bacterial infection that develops after a heat cycle and can quickly become fatal without treatment.
This procedure involves stabilising your pet, performing surgery under general anaesthesia, and providing intensive aftercare to support recovery.
Pyometra can develop silently over several days and often presents suddenly. Recognising the signs early and acting quickly is critical.
Lethargy, vomiting, or inappetence
Increased thirst and urination
Vaginal discharge (in open pyometra)
Swollen abdomen
Fever or signs of shock (in advanced cases)
Pyometra is always considered a medical emergency.
Before Surgery
Your pet will undergo a full pre-anaesthetic check. For senior pets (over 10 years old or 7+ for large breeds), and those with concerning symptoms, pre-anaesthetic bloodwork are mandatory. This helps assess organ function and supports safer anaesthesia.
During Surgery
Under general anaesthesia, the infected uterus and ovaries are surgically removed. IV fluids, pain relief, and antibiotics are administered throughout. The surgery is more complex than a standard spay due to the infection and potential systemic effects.
After Surgery
Most pets stay in-clinic overnight for ongoing care and monitoring. Pain relief and antibiotics are continued at home. Recovery usually takes 10–14 days, and activity should be limited during this time. A follow-up visit will be scheduled to check the surgical site and remove sutures if needed.
Pyometra is life-threatening and requires urgent surgery.
Not the same as a routine spay – infection and inflammation make this more complex.
Final costs may vary depending on your pet’s stability, lab needs, and surgery findings.
IV Fluids are mandatory for all pyometra surgeries.
Pre-anaesthetic bloodwork is mandatory for high-risk or older pets and strongly recommended for others.
The uterus is sent for disposal unless histopathology is requested.
A big part of our local community - Our Veterinary Practice has been an integral part of our local community since February 2010. In that time, we’ve helped thousands of our clients cats & dogs, rabbits, rats and even a few birds.
