Sodium bicarbonate is given to correct acidosis. Abdominal drainage may also be undertaken during treatment. Surgery is not indicated until the foal is stable. The foal must be metabolically stable before surgery to avoid anaesthetic complications. The placement of a urinary catheter is controversial among practitioners and may or may not be done.
Laparoscopic surgery is an alternative to conventional surgical treatment.
It is less invasive and allows better visualization, but also requires specialized equipment and expertise. The prognosis for ruptured bladder cases is favourable unless underlying sepsis is present.