Cat spay surgery, how to do it right? - briefly
To perform cat spay surgery correctly, ensure the procedure is conducted by a licensed veterinarian in a sterile environment, using proper anesthesia and surgical techniques to minimize risks and promote swift recovery.
Cat spay surgery, how to do it right? - in detail
Cat spay surgery, or ovariohysterectomy, is a common veterinary procedure performed to sterilize female cats, preventing unwanted pregnancies and reducing the risk of certain health issues such as mammary tumors and uterine infections. To ensure the procedure is done correctly, several critical steps must be followed meticulously. First, a thorough pre-operative evaluation is essential, including a physical examination and blood tests to assess the cat’s overall health and identify any underlying conditions that could complicate anesthesia or surgery. The cat should be fasted for 8-12 hours before the procedure to minimize the risk of aspiration during anesthesia.
The surgical process begins with the administration of anesthesia, which must be carefully tailored to the cat’s weight, age, and health status. Once the cat is fully anesthetized, the surgical site is shaved and sterilized to prevent infection. The surgeon then makes a small midline incision in the abdomen, just below the umbilicus, to access the reproductive organs. The ovaries and uterus are identified, and the ovarian pedicles and uterine blood vessels are ligated to prevent bleeding. The entire uterus and ovaries are then removed, ensuring no tissue is left behind that could lead to complications.
After the reproductive organs are excised, the abdominal muscles and skin are sutured in layers to promote proper healing. The choice of sutures and closure technique is crucial to minimize the risk of complications such as infection or dehiscence. Post-operative care is equally important; the cat should be monitored closely as it recovers from anesthesia and provided with pain management to ensure comfort. The incision site must be kept clean and dry, and the cat should be prevented from licking or scratching the area, which may require the use of an Elizabethan collar. Follow-up visits with the veterinarian are necessary to monitor healing and address any concerns. Properly executed cat spay surgery requires precision, attention to detail, and adherence to veterinary best practices to ensure the cat’s safety and long-term well-being.