What is spaying?
An ovariohysterectomy, which is more commonly referred to as a spay procedure, is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of the female reproductive organs. These organs include the two ovaries, the uterine horns, and the body of the uterus.
Benefits Of Spaying
By having your pet spayed, you are removing the possibility of having another litter of kittens or puppies that you do not want. When it comes to female cats that live outside, spaying is especially important because they have the highest risk of becoming pregnant at an early age and that they can start getting pregnant at any time.
Spaying your pet can also help reduce the likelihood of it developing a disease that affects the female reproductive system. The spay procedure eliminates the risk of a severe uterine infection, also known as pyometra. Furthermore, some evidence suggests that spaying pets at a young age reduces their risk of developing breast cancer in the future.
When should I get my pet spayed?
Female cats and dogs should be spayed before their first heat cycle, which usually occurs around the age of 6 months. However, for certain large dog breeds, it may be best to wait until they are closer to one year old to ensure proper growth and development.
Consulting with your veterinarian will provide you with the most accurate and specific recommendation for your pet's individual needs.
However, it is important to note that spaying can be done at any age, even if your pet has already gone through their first heat cycle. It is never too late to have your pet spayed, as it offers numerous health benefits and helps prevent unwanted pregnancies.
What happens if I don't get my pet spayed?
There are a few potential consequences to not having your pet spayed. One of the most serious concerns is that your pet may become pregnant unintentionally, contributing to an increase in the pet population. Furthermore, female pets who have not been spayed may be at a higher risk of developing certain health problems, such as uterine infections and cancer.
The Spay Procedure
Prior to the start of the procedure, your veterinarian will run the necessary diagnostic tests to ensure that your pet is in good enough health to undergo the operation without any unnecessary risks. General anesthesia is typically used during spay procedures.
After the anesthesia has been administered, the hair on your pet's abdomen will be shaved down, and the skin will be disinfected in a comprehensive manner. Laparoscopic surgery, which utilizes surgical lasers, or traditional scalpel surgery are the two methods that are utilized to remove the organs. Both approaches are risk-free.
Following the completion of the procedure, the skin of your pet will be bandaged using either skin glue, sutures (stitches), or surgical staples. Ten to fourteen days after the procedure, your veterinarian will need to remove any staples or stitches that came out of the animal.
How long does spaying surgery take?
The procedure could take anywhere from twenty to ninety minutes, depending on your pet's size and any special medical needs. When it comes to older pets or large-breed dogs, the procedure may take longer and even require the participation of two surgeons at once.
You should anticipate that your pet will spend a few hours at the hospital, despite the fact that the procedure itself is relatively short. This is because you will need to allow time for check-in, an initial physical assessment, the actual surgery, and recovery from the anesthesia.
How long does spaying take to heal?
The majority of pets will feel better within 24 to 48 hours, but full recovery will take ten to fourteen days. During this time, you should keep your pet calm and avoid allowing them to jump, as this may cause the previously closed incision to reopen. Observe the incision on a daily basis for signs of infection. Contact your veterinarian if you notice any of the following symptoms: redness, discharge, swelling, or an unpleasant odor.
Watching how your pet behaves is another important thing to do. A possible indication of an infection is if, after forty-eight hours, they continue to exhibit signs of lethargy and do not consume any food or liquids. Make sure to follow up with your veterinarian or take them to a veterinarian who specializes in emergency patient care.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.