Spay Clinic FAQ

The neutering of the female pets is typically performed at a spay clinic. If you are planning a spaying for your pet, you probably have a few questions about the procedure. Knowing the answer to your questions can make you prepared for the surgery.

How Is the Spaying Performed?

Spaying or the ovariohysterectomy is a procedure that will remove the ovaries and a part or the entire uterus. The cervix will be tied up.

The surgery may be stitched up; the stitches may be external or internal. The cat will have a surgery scar.

Should the Pet Stay in the Clinic Overnight?

The spaying is an outpatient procedure, but some clinics prefer to keep the pets overnight to ensure they get rest and to monitor the evolution of the pet.

How to Care for the Spayed Pet?

The spayed pet will require a few days to recover and should also be kept away from physical activities. The pet may not eat during the first 24 hours after the procedure. The pet may be confused due to the anesthetic, so make sure you place her in a towel or a blanket, so that she won’t hurt you or herself.

You should keep an eye on your pet to ensure she won’t scratch or chew the stitches.

If you notice anything unusual such as fever, drainage or bleeding from the surgery wound, you should consult your vet.

Can the Spaying Be Performed while the Pet Is in Heat?

The spaying surgery may be performed while the pet is in heat. Some vets will avoid doing this, as the surgery may have additional complications (the ovaries will be enlarged and the blood vessels will also be larger). Consequently, the surgery will take longer and may also be more expensive.

Spaying during or after Pregnancy?

If needed, the spaying can be performed during pregnancy. However, the procedure will be more complex and it will typically involve aborting the puppies or kittens. The puppies or the kittens may be left in the uterus, but this procedure will be complicated.

The spaying procedure of a pregnant pet will require extra time, so the vet will charge you extra.

If the pet has just given birth, the spaying should be performed only 1 month after this event, as the enlarged mammary glands may interfere with the surgery and make it more complicated.

What Is the Best Time for Spaying?

The optimal time for spaying a pet is before the first heat cycle (at the age of 6 to 12 months).

However, the pet may be spayed at any time during her life, as the procedure will prevent pregnancies and unwanted puppies or kittens.

Will the Surgery Affect the Pet?

Personality changes may occur; the cat will be calmer and more affectionate. She may be less active and may sleep more.

The pet may gain weight, so the food intake should be reduced.

Will the Pet Be in Heat after Spaying?

If the surgery is successful, the pet shouldn’t come into heat after the spaying procedure. However, if ovarian tissues are left behind, the pet may come into heat. A second surgery will be needed to remove the remaining tissues.

 

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