Spayed 8 months ago, now in heat

[Lunathefoldcat]

Hi All, My cat Luna who is 13 months old was spayed in May of 2023 when she was 5 months old. Her situation was special since the vet was only able to find one ovary (left side only). Another doctor onsite at the time took a look with her, but no luck. So they figured Luna may just be born with one ovary. But did say if she showed any signs of heat, then she would recommend we see a board certified surgeon to do an exploratory surgery. 8 months later, here I am. My vet was surprised that she just started showing heat behavior now and not immediately after surgery 8 months ago. My vet continued to recommend that we see a board certified surgeon which we already have an appointment for. Just here to see if anyone have ever experienced this situation including exploratory surgery? The cost of exploratory surgery? Or should I schedule with another vet for a second opinion. I know being in heat is a normal and natural thing, but I just feel so bad for my Luna since I can't do anything but take her to the vet.

 

[FeebysOwner]

HI. I have read about cases where there are tissue remnants left behind in spayed cats - and there is a test for that, which should apply as well in your case.
Feline Reproductive Function Tests | Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine
Was there a pelvic x-ray done? It might help to reveal if there is a 'concealed' ovary.

 

[Lunathefoldcat]

Hi there, yeah the vet mentioned that as well. I actually made an appointment with Cornell Veterinary Specialist for a consultation, I have a feeling they will recommend an X-ray which Luna has never had before. I contacted another vet and they said they can do blood work panel to determine if the missing ovary is there or not. But I think I am just going to the Veterinary Specialist and have everything done there.

 

[FeebysOwner]

The x-ray is harmless and doesn't even normally require any kind of sedation - ditto with the blood test.

Keep us posted, please.

 

[Lunathefoldcat]

Update: Went to another vet for a second opinion and they recommended I see a specialist due to my cats history. He said the missing ovary may have grown elsewhere or it could be a remnant. But only a specialist can further assist. We have an appointment end of the month. Will update everyone then to help others that may encounter this in the future.

 

[Lunathefoldcat]

Another update: We saw a specialist the last two weeks. Luna completed hormone panels for ovarian remnant syndrome and it came back with inconclusive results. But the specialist reviewed previous CT images taken after initial spay and found what potentially could be the missing ovary. Just today, we completed an ultrasound which confirms what could be the missing ovary. So all we have to do is exploratory surgery to locate and remove the ovary. Specialist did say there is a very small chance they may not find anything but it's unlikely. Surgery is scheduled in 2 weeks. For those wondering, this is costing me around 6k in the area where I live.

 

[fionasmom]

Thank you for updating. Please let us know if they do find the missing ovary when you have the surgery. Once you have to move to specialized vet care, the price increases accordingly...unfortunately.

 

[Lunathefoldcat]

I will definitely provide a surgery update. Yeah, urgent care and specialized vets prices are ridiculous, but we do anything for our fur babies. At least I do

 

[Lunathefoldcat]

Final update: It's been 10 days since Luna's exploratory surgery and it was successful. The specialist was able to find the right ovary . The road to recovery has been positive as well. Here is a video of Luna 5 days after surgery. Stitches are coming out in 3 days and we can't wait.

Here was my Easter Sunday morning cuddles with my kitties (Luna is the one in the pink suit).

 

[FeebysOwner]

Thanks so much for the update and what looks to be a wonderful outcome!!!!