How is castration performed on a cat? - briefly
Castration, also known as neutering, is a common surgical procedure for male cats. It involves the removal of both testicles through a small incision, typically performed under general anesthesia. The procedure is relatively quick and is designed to prevent unwanted behaviors and litters. Post-surgery, cats usually recover within a few days with proper care and medication.
How is castration performed on a cat? - in detail
Cat castration, also known as orchiectomy or neutering, is a common surgical procedure performed to remove a male cat's testicles. This procedure is typically done to prevent unwanted litters, reduce the risk of certain health issues, and minimize behavioral problems such as spraying and aggression. The surgery is usually performed when the cat is between six to nine months old, but it can be done at any age.
Preparation for the procedure begins with a thorough physical examination and pre-operative blood tests to ensure the cat is healthy enough for anesthesia. The cat is usually fasted for 8-12 hours before the surgery to reduce the risk of vomiting during anesthesia. On the day of the surgery, the cat is administered a pre-anesthetic medication to help it relax and reduce anxiety. An intravenous catheter is placed to administer fluids and anesthetic drugs.
The cat is then induced into general anesthesia using a combination of drugs, and an endotracheal tube is inserted to maintain an open airway and deliver oxygen and anesthetic gases. The surgical site, which is typically the scrotum or the inguinal area, is clipped of fur and cleaned with an antiseptic solution to minimize the risk of infection.
The surgery itself is relatively straightforward. An incision is made in the scrotum or the inguinal area, and the testicles are exposed. Each testicle is carefully separated from the surrounding tissues and blood vessels, which are then ligated (tied off) to prevent bleeding. The testicles are then removed, and the incision is closed with sutures or surgical glue. In some cases, especially in very young cats, the testicles may not have descended into the scrotum and may be located in the abdomen. In such cases, a more invasive surgical approach may be required to locate and remove the testicles.
Post-operatively, the cat is monitored closely as it recovers from anesthesia. Pain management is provided to ensure the cat's comfort, and antibiotics may be prescribed to prevent infection. The cat is typically discharged from the hospital the same day or the following day, depending on its recovery. Owners are instructed to limit the cat's activity for about 10-14 days to allow the incision to heal properly. The cat should be prevented from licking or chewing at the incision site, which may require the use of an Elizabethan collar.
Complications from cat castration are rare but can include infection, bleeding, and swelling at the surgical site. In some cases, a condition known as cryptorchidism, where one or both testicles fail to descend into the scrotum, may require additional surgery. Regular follow-up examinations are recommended to ensure the cat's continued health and well-being.