How is a cat sterilized? - briefly
Cat sterilization involves surgically removing the reproductive organs of a cat. This procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia and includes removing the ovaries and fallopian tubes in females (ovariohysterectomy) or the testicles in males (orchiectomy).
How is a cat sterilized? - in detail
Sterilization of cats, also known as spaying for females and neutering for males, is a common veterinary procedure that prevents unwanted litters and reduces certain health risks. The process involves surgically removing reproductive organs under general anesthesia. Here's a detailed look at how this procedure is performed:
For female cats (spaying):
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Pre-operative Care: Before the surgery, the cat should be fasted for 8 to 12 hours to ensure she does not vomit during or after the procedure. The veterinarian will perform a pre-anesthetic examination and possibly blood tests to assess overall health.
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Anesthesia: General anesthesia is administered to keep the cat immobile and pain-free during surgery. This is typically done through an intravenous injection or inhalation of gas.
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Surgical Procedure: The veterinarian makes a small incision in the cat's abdomen, usually along the midline. For spaying, the ovaries and uterus are removed. This is done carefully to avoid damaging nearby structures such as the bladder or intestines.
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Closure: The incision is closed with sutures that dissolve over time. In some cases, skin glue or staples may be used instead of traditional sutures.
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Post-operative Care: After surgery, the cat is moved to a recovery area where she can wake up from anesthesia under close supervision. Pain medication and antibiotics are often administered to manage discomfort and prevent infection. The cat should be kept quiet and indoors for about 10-14 days to allow proper healing.
For male cats (neutering):
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Pre-operative Care: Similar to female cats, the male cat is fasted before surgery and undergoes a pre-anesthetic examination.
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Anesthesia: General anesthesia is administered to ensure the cat remains still and comfortable during the procedure.
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Surgical Procedure: A small incision is made in the scrotum, and each testicle is gently pulled out through the incision. The vessels and vas deferens attached to each testicle are clamped and cut, and then the testicles are removed.
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Closure: The incision is closed with sutures or surgical glue. In some cases, no closure is needed as the skin heals quickly on its own.
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Post-operative Care: Post-operative care includes monitoring for any signs of discomfort or infection. Pain medication and antibiotics may be prescribed if necessary. The cat should also be kept indoors and quiet for about 10-14 days to facilitate healing.
Both spaying and neutering are routine procedures with a high success rate when performed by a trained veterinarian. They not only control the pet population but also provide health benefits such as reducing the risk of certain cancers and behavioral issues.