TL;DR: Foul-smelling vaginal discharge in cats is a life-threatening emergency, typically indicating a severe uterine infection like pyometra. Contact an emergency veterinarian immediately to prevent sepsis and potential organ failure.
What causes foul-smelling vaginal discharge in my cat?
Vaginal discharge that carries a strong, unpleasant, or putrid odor is typically a sign of a severe bacterial infection within the reproductive tract. In unspayed female cats, this is most commonly associated with pyometra, a condition where the uterus fills with pus. It may also occur after giving birth if a placenta is retained or if the uterus becomes infected (metritis). Normal grooming often hides mild discharge, so if you can see or smell it, the infection is likely advanced.
Is foul-smelling vaginal discharge in my cat a medical emergency?
- Urgency Level: High. This is a life-threatening medical emergency that requires immediate intervention.
- Foul-smelling discharge indicates that the cat's body is struggling to manage a significant bacterial infection.
- Untreated infections can lead to a ruptured uterus or sepsis (bacteria leaking into the bloodstream), causing rapid organ failure and death.
- Contact an emergency veterinarian immediately, especially if your cat is also lethargic, refusing food, or drinking excessive amounts of water.
Why should I take a photo of my cat’s vaginal discharge for the veterinarian?
- A clear photograph of the discharge on the cat's fur or bedding provides vital information for the triage team.
- The specific color (yellow, green, or bloody) and consistency help the vet determine the type of infection.
- Visual evidence helps the medical team decide how quickly the patient needs to be moved into surgery.
- While helpful, do not let the process of taking a picture delay your departure to the emergency clinic.
Clinical Context (Merck Veterinary Manual)
In cases of feline vaginal discharge with foul odor, it is critical to differentiate vaginitis from open-cervix pyometra. Diagnostic evaluation should include digital examination of the vagina, vaginoscopy, cytology, and culture of the exudate, as well as abdominal radiographs or ultrasonography to evaluate the uterus. A purulent or sanguineous vulvar discharge is often present with open-cervix pyometra. Concurrent signs may include lethargy, anorexia, polyuria, polydipsia, and vomiting, which can rapidly progress to shock and death. Laboratory findings may reveal leukocytosis characterized by neutrophilia with a left shift or leukopenia in animals with sepsis. Uterine exudate should be cultured and sensitivity tests performed to guide antibiotic selection.
Chapter: Reproductive, Urology
Source: The Merck Veterinary Manual, 11th Edition (Page 1398)