Having your female dog or cat spayed can help prevent unwanted litters, as well as various unwanted behaviors and diseases. In this post, our Citrus County vets discuss having your pet fixed and answer the question, 'How long does spaying take?'.
What is spaying?
An ovariohysterectomy, more commonly referred to as spaying, is a surgical procedure that involves removing the female reproductive organs, including the two ovaries, the uterine horns, and the body of the uterus.
Benefits Of Spaying
By spaying your pet, you are removing the possibility of having another litter of kittens or puppies 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 they can start getting pregnant at any time.
As an additional benefit, spaying your pet can help reduce the likelihood of developing a disease affecting the female reproductive system. The spay procedure eliminates the possibility of a severe infection of the uterus, also known as pyometra. Additionally, there is some evidence to suggest that pets that are spayed at a younger age have a lower risk of developing breast cancer in the future.
When should I get my pet spayed?
Generally, it is recommended that female cats and dogs be spayed before their first heat cycle, which is typically around six months of age. However, for certain large dog breeds, waiting until they are closer to one year old may be advised to allow for proper growth and development. Consulting with your veterinarian will provide the most accurate and specific recommendation for your pet's 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. Having your pet spayed is never too late, as it offers numerous health benefits and helps prevent unwanted pregnancies.
What happens if I don't get my pet spayed?
If you don't get your pet spayed, there are a few potential consequences. One of the main concerns is that your pet may experience unwanted pregnancies, increasing the pet population. Additionally, female pets that are not spayed may be at a higher risk for certain health issues, such as uterine infections and certain types of cancer.
The Spay Procedure
Your veterinarian will perform the necessary diagnostic tests before the beginning of the procedure to ensure that your pet is in good enough health to undergo the operation without any unnecessary risks. General anesthesia is normally administered to perform 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 thoroughly. Laparoscopic surgery, which utilizes surgical lasers, or traditional scalpel surgery, are the two methods used to remove the organs. Both approaches are risk-free.
Following the completion of the procedure, your pet's skin 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 from the animal.
How long does spaying surgery take?
The procedure may take anywhere from twenty to ninety minutes to complete, depending on the size of your pet and any particular medical considerations that may be involved. When it comes to older pets or large-breed dogs, the procedure may take longer and may even require the participation of two surgeons simultaneously.
Despite the relatively short procedure, you should anticipate that your pet will spend a few hours at the hospital. 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 it take to recover from spaying?
Many pet parents ask, 'How long does spaying take to heal?'. Most pets begin to feel better within twenty-four to forty-eight hours, but it will take them ten to fourteen days to recover fully. During this time, you should prioritize maintaining your pet's composure and not allowing them to jump, as this could result in the previously closed incision becoming open again. Observe the incision daily for any indications of infection. Contact your veterinarian if you observe any symptoms: redness, discharge, swelling, or an offensive odor.
Another important thing to do is watch how your pet behaves. 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. Follow up with your veterinarian or take them to a veterinarian specializing 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.