Feline ovariohysterectomy

Question 1

How is this performed

Answer 1

midline abdominal incision. However, some surgeons may prefer to do a flank spey. This is the technique of choice for lactating queens, as the kittens won’t be interfering with the surgical site during feeding.

Question 2

Patient prep

Answer 2

The patient is clipped cranial to the last rib to the iliac crest and then from the transverse process of the lumbar vertebrae to the flank fold.

Question 3

Patient Positioning

Answer 3

This requires the patient to be placed in either left or right lateral recumbency (surgeon’s preference). The hind limbs are often secured in an extended position caudally, but some surgeons may request the limbs to be left in a neutral position untied.

Question 4

Instruments and materials

Answer 4

A general surgical kit with a spey hook selected is required. A fenestrated drape appropriate to the patient’s size must also be selected.