Perineal urethrostomy in a ferret (Mustela putorius furo) to treat iatrogenic urethral stricture after orchiectomy

Abstract

A 5‐month‐old ferret (Mustela putorius furo) was presented with a recent history of stranguria, distended urinary bladder, post‐renal azotaemia and a severed urethra following orchiectomy at the referring practice 4 weeks previously. At presentation, an indwelling urinary catheter was present, and the general examination was unremarkable. Blood analyses showed increased serum urea levels. An abdominal ultrasound showed no abnormalities. Contrast cystourethrography revealed a urethral stricture at the level of the castration site. Perineal urethrostomy was performed proximal to the stenosis, caudal to the pubis bone. Examination of the stoma 3 weeks postoperatively showed good healing and no stenosis. No recurrence of signs was reported at regular follow‐up phone communication with the owner up to 11 months postoperatively. Urethral stricture is a possible complication following orchiectomy in ferrets, and a perineal urethrostomy can be performed.