General Information: Ovariohysterectomy is the medical term for spaying a female dog or cat. The procedure consists of surgical removal of the ovaries and uterus. If the ovaries are not removed, the bothersome heat periods still occur even though pregnancy is impossible. Surgery is usually performed at 4-6 months of age. Though it is routinely performed, ovariohysterectomy is major abdominal surgery requiring general anesthesia and sterile operating technique. Prevention of pregnancy and heat periods is the main reason for the surgery, but the procedure is often necessary in treating severe uterine infections, ovarian and/or uterine tumors, and some skin disorders.
Frequently Asked Questions: Are there any problems associated with spaying? A very small percentage of dogs have trouble holding their urine as they become older. This is normally controllable with medication. Are there benefits to spaying in addition to eliminating the heat cycles and the chances of pregnancy? Yes! Spayed female dogs and cats have less health considerations as they get older than females who are not spayed!
Home Care: **Please keep your pet calm for the next 10-14 days so she does not rupture internal sutures and require additional surgery.**
Feeding: Offer a small amount of water at first and then your pet's regular diet. Do not give her any food she is not used to tonight. Do not be alarmed if she does not eat at all tonight. She has had a complete hysterectomy today. Let her sleep soundly tonight. Normal feeding may resume tomorrow.
Exercise: Restrict her activity for about 14 days. Do not let your pet outside unattended. She is to be kept on a leash whenever outdoors for one week.
Baths: No baths for 10-14 days.
Incision: Sutures are to be removed by us in 10-14 days. You may schedule an appointment at any time. Check her abdominal incision at least once a day. If you notice any redness, swelling or discharge, wrap her belly and have us take a look at her. Monitor her attitude at home following surgery. If you notice any vomiting, weakness, decrease in appetite or any other problems, please call us.
Medication: Pain medication has been dispensed. Please begin tomorrow as she has had injectable pain control today. The directions are on the package. Your pet was placed under gas anesthesia today. A small tube was placed down her throat and can sometimes cause irritation for a day or two. If there is any persistent coughing for more than 2 days, let us know.
Finally: The most important thing to remember is to let her rest following this surgery. The quieter she is for the next 10 days, the faster she will heal.
