What is done during a cat's neutering? - briefly
Neutering a cat involves a surgical procedure performed under general anesthesia. The veterinarian removes the testicles to prevent reproduction and reduce hormone-related behaviors.
What is done during a cat's neutering? - in detail
Neutering a cat, also known as orchiectomy or castration, is a surgical procedure performed to remove the testicles of a male cat. This procedure is commonly done to prevent unwanted litters, reduce certain behavioral issues, and lower the risk of certain health problems. The process involves several steps, each crucial for the well-being of the animal.
Preparation for the surgery begins with a thorough pre-operative assessment. The veterinarian will conduct a physical examination and may order blood tests to ensure the cat is healthy enough for surgery. It is essential to follow the veterinarian's instructions regarding fasting, usually requiring the cat to refrain from eating for 8-12 hours prior to the procedure to minimize the risk of anesthesia-related complications.
On the day of the surgery, the cat is brought to the veterinary clinic. The veterinarian and support staff will prepare the cat by administering a pre-anesthetic sedative to help the cat relax. An intravenous catheter may be placed to administer fluids and medications during the procedure. General anesthesia is then induced, and the cat is intubated to maintain a clear airway and provide a consistent supply of anesthetic gases.
Once the cat is under anesthesia, the surgical site is prepared. The area around the scrotum is shaved and cleaned with an antiseptic solution to minimize the risk of infection. The veterinarian will make a small incision in the scrotum or, in some cases, just in front of the scrotum, to access the testicles. The testicles are then carefully removed, and the blood vessels supplying them are ligated to prevent bleeding.
After the testicles are removed, the incision is closed using sutures or surgical glue. The veterinarian may choose to place subcutaneous sutures to close the deeper layers of tissue and then use skin sutures or staples to close the outer layer. In some cases, dissolvable sutures are used, which do not require removal. The surgical site is then cleaned again, and the cat is monitored closely as the anesthesia wears off.
Post-operative care is crucial for a successful recovery. The cat will typically stay at the clinic for a few hours to ensure it wakes up from anesthesia without complications. Once the cat is stable, it can be discharged to go home. Pain management is an essential part of post-operative care, and the veterinarian will prescribe appropriate pain medication. The cat should be kept indoors and restricted from vigorous activity for about 10-14 days to allow the incision to heal properly. The veterinarian will provide specific instructions on how to care for the incision, including keeping it clean and monitoring for any signs of infection or complications.
Regular follow-up appointments may be scheduled to monitor the cat's recovery and remove any non-dissolvable sutures if necessary. Owners should be vigilant for any signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or discharge from the incision site, and contact their veterinarian if any concerns arise. Proper aftercare ensures that the cat recovers smoothly and benefits from the long-term advantages of neutering, including reduced risk of testicular cancer, decreased likelihood of roaming and fighting, and a lower incidence of urine spraying and marking behaviors.