How much does PU surgery cost for a cat?

The surgery typically ranges from $3,000 to $5,000. This often follows $1,000-$2,000 spent on unblocking attempts.

Perineal Urethrostomy widens the male cat's urethra, essentially making it function more like a female's to prevent future blockage.

Is PU surgery covered by pet insurance?

Yes, mostly. However, if your cat had FLUTD/Urinary issues before the policy, it will likely be excluded.

PU Surgery Cost for Cats 2026: Saving a Blocked Cat's Life

For male cats, a “blocked urethra” is a common and deadly emergency. When crystals, stones, or spasms prevent a cat from peeing, the bladder becomes a ticking time bomb.

If unblocking procedures (catheters) fail or the blockage keeps coming back, your vet will recommend Perineal Urethrostomy (PU) Surgery.

In 2026, the average cost of PU Surgery is $3,500.

This is often on top of the money you already spent trying to unblock him medically.

💰 2026 Cost Breakdown: The Cumulative Bill

Owners are often shocked by the price because they face it after already paying for emergency unblocking.

Phase	Est. Cost	Notes
Initial Unblocking (ER)	$1,500 – $3,000	Catheterization, 2-3 days hospitalization
Top-up for PU Surgery	+ $2,000 – $3,500	If unblocking fails, surgery is added
Direct-to-Surgery	$3,500 – $5,500	Skipping medical management (Rare)

Total Cost for a Blocked Cat Case: Often $5,000 - $7,000.

🏥 The Procedure: Anatomy Change

PU surgery is a delicate reconstructive surgery.

Amputation: The narrowest part of the penis is removed.
Creation: The vet creates a new, wider opening for the urethra effectively mimicking the anatomy of a female cat.
Goal: Small stones and crystals can now pass through the wider opening without causing a blockage.

🛡️ Insurance Coverage Analysis

The Urinary Nightmare Urinary issues in cats are the #1 source of pre-existing condition denials.

The Scenario: You adopt a cat. He gets a UTI. You treat it. You buy insurance. Two years later he blocks.
The Denial: The insurer may link the blockage to the “pre-existing” urinary tract issues from years ago and deny the $5,000 claim.
The Solution: Look for insurers that distinguish between “Curable” vs “Incurable” conditions. If the UTI was cured and he was symptom-free for 12 months, some policies (like ASPCA or Embrace) will cover the new blockage.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Will my cat still use the litter box?

Yes. Once healed, he will urinate normally. He just won’t be able to get blocked as easily.

Can he get blocked again after PU surgery?

It is very rare, but possible if the new opening scars down and narrows, or if he forms huge stones. However, the risk drops by Over 90%.

Is it worth the money?

If you cannot afford it, the only alternative for a recurrently blocked cat is euthanasia. PU surgery gives the cat a normal life expectancy.