Surgery Flashcards
When should pets be spayed or neutered?
Between 3-6 mo old unless owner wants to breed pet
Benefits of spaying?
Reduction of mammary tumors
Reduction of pyometra (a serious uterine infection)
Reduction of certain other cancers and certain undesirable behaviors
Benefits of neutering?
Reduction of testicular disease
Reduction of prostrate problems and cancer
Reduction of certain undesirable behaviors
How much do energy needs decrease after spaying or neutering?
25-30%
How much more likely are spayed or neutered dogs to become obese if the diet is not regulated IMMEDIATELY after surgery?
3-4 times more likely
How much should owners reduce the amount of food being fed after spaying or neutering a pet?
By 25%
Food and water protocol for surgery
No food the night before or morning of
No water the morning of
When can a cat or dog go home the next day after a spay?
After 10 am (but call before to make sure cat can go home)
Swimming or baths after a spay, neuter, or declaw (not dental)?
No, not until the stitches are removed or 14 days passes (whichever comes first)
When is the no charge suture removal done for spays, declaws (if needed), dentals (if teeth were extracted), and dog neuters? What about cat neuters?
14 days after surgery
Cat neuters don’t need sutures, but the doctor should still examine the surgery site about 10-14 days after surgery
What is normal for a cat or dog spay, dog neuter, or cat declaw incision site? What is not? Tips?
Small amounts of drainage for the first 2 days post op
Excessive draining, and increase in inflammation, or bright red blood is not normal!
Make sure edges stay together and discourage licking!
What is normal after an endotracheal tube placement? What is the tube used for?
Mild tracheal irritation or coughing for 2-3 days
To minimize risk and administer gas anesthesia properly
How long should you keep a dog from jumping and rough housing with kids after a spay or neuter (or a cat after a neuter)?
For 7 days post surgery
When does a pet go home after a neuter or dental?
Same day, after 5 pm
Bathing and swimming okay after dental?
Yes, as long as the pet is fully recovered from the surgery and anesthesia
