How is sterilization performed on cats? - briefly
Sterilization in cats is typically performed through a surgical procedure known as an ovariohysterectomy for females and orchiectomy for males. This involves the removal of the reproductive organs under general anesthesia, which prevents further reproduction and can help address behavioral issues.
How is sterilization performed on cats? - in detail
Sterilization of cats, also known as spaying in females and neutering in males, is a common surgical procedure designed to prevent unwanted litters and reduce behavioral issues associated with mating instincts. The process involves removing the reproductive organs under general anesthesia. Here’s a detailed breakdown of how sterilization is performed on cats:
Before the procedure, the cat should be in good health and free from any infections or diseases that could complicate surgery. A thorough physical examination and blood tests are typically conducted to ensure the cat is fit for anesthesia and surgery.
On the day of the procedure, the cat is usually fasted overnight to prevent vomiting during anesthesia. Once at the clinic, a pre-anesthetic sedative is administered to calm the cat and make it easier to place an intravenous (IV) catheter for fluid administration and medication delivery.
General anesthesia is then induced using a combination of medications, which are carefully calculated based on the cat's weight and overall health status. Once the cat is under anesthesia, it is intubated to maintain a clear airway throughout the procedure. Vital signs such as heart rate, respiratory rate, blood pressure, and oxygen saturation are continuously monitored using specialized equipment.
For female cats (spaying), an incision is made on the cat's abdomen, typically just below the umbilicus. The uterus and ovaries are located and carefully extracted through the incision. In most cases, the entire reproductive tract, including the uterine horns and ovaries, is removed to minimize the risk of complications such as pyometra (a life-threatening infection of the uterus). The incision is then closed using absorbable sutures.
For male cats (neutering), an incision is made in the scrotum or directly into the abdomen, depending on the veterinarian's preference and the cat's individual anatomy. The testicles are located and carefully removed through the incision. The incision is then closed using absorbable sutures.
After the procedure, the cat is transferred to a recovery area where it is monitored until it regains consciousness from the anesthesia. Once awake, the cat is provided with pain medication and antibiotics if necessary. It is typically kept in the hospital overnight for observation before being discharged to its owner.
Post-operative care includes keeping the cat quiet and restricting activity for 10-14 days to allow the incision to heal properly. An Elizabethan collar (e-collar) may be provided to prevent the cat from licking or biting at the surgical site. The sutures are typically removed 10-14 days after the procedure, depending on the veterinarian's instructions and the rate of healing.
Sterilization is a routine procedure with a high success rate when performed by a qualified veterinarian. However, as with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks and complications that should be discussed with your veterinarian before the surgery is scheduled.