Our Services
Cat Surgical Procedures
We carry out a wide range of common and sophisticated veterinary surgical operations, always putting your cherished family member first.
Cat Surgical Procedures
Preparing Your Cat for Surgery: What You Need to Know
If your feline friend is scheduled for surgery, it’s natural to feel a bit anxious about the upcoming procedure. You may be wondering how to best prepare your cat, what to expect during the surgery, and how to help them recover once you’re back home. At The Pets I Love, we’re committed to delivering exceptional veterinary care to your furry friend. We understand that the decision to pursue surgery can be stressful, which is why our knowledgeable veterinary team is always available to support you throughout the process.
Routine Surgeries for Dogs Include:
- Spays
- Neuters
- Dental Procedures
- Mass Removals
Urgent Procedures for Dogs Include:
- Cystotomy
- Foreign Body Removals
- Abscess Repairs
- Laceration Repairs
How to Prepare for Your Cats Surgical Procedure
In an emergency situation, there may be limited time for preparations before your cat undergoes a procedure. However, for routine surgeries, The Pets I Love team will provide you with detailed pre-surgical instructions tailored to your cat. As with any anesthetic or surgical procedure, there is always a small risk involved. Pre-operative blood work is a useful screening test that may detect pre-existing problems that could interfere with the pet’s ability to handle anesthetic drugs.
Although these guidelines may differ slightly depending on the type of procedure, the general guideline for pre-operative care:
- Pick up your cat’s food by midnight the night before surgery, but allow them to have access to water
- All of your cat’s routine medications should be given as normally unless otherwise instructed by a member of our veterinary team
- Diabetic cats may need special fasting instructions
- Be on time for your surgery drop off appointment. There is an important pre-surgical process that requires your cat to be in the hospital when scheduled
- On your arrival, you will be asked to sign a surgical consent form. Please read this form carefully and advise of any other treatment required while your cat is under our care, i.e. microchipping
- We may need to contact you during the procedure or to discuss results. Please be prepared to leave a contact number where we can reach someone at all times
How to Prepare for Your Cats Post-Surgical Care
Set up a quiet, warm space in your home where your cat can recover. Keep young children and other pets away to minimize stress. Keep your cat indoors for at least 24 hours to supervise or until the sutures are removed.
You will be provided with a discharge appointment and we will provide detailed post-surgical instructions when you arrive to pick up your cat.
Although these guidelines may differ slightly depending on the type of procedure, the general guideline for postoperative care:
- Most routine procedures can go home the same day
- Advanced or emergency procedures, often stay 24 hours or longer depending on the procedure in order to monitor vital signs and to deliver critical care
- Make sure to schedule your follow up appointment (if needed)
- Most importantly, before you leave, make sure you have a good understanding of post-surgical instructions. Remember, all questions are good questions.
Normal Post-Surgical in Behavior in the 24 Hours Following Surgery Include:
- Your cat may appear disoriented or groggy for a few hours after waking up from general anesthesia
- Your cat may have a decreased appetite
- Your cats incision site will have a slight redness
If you notice your cats refusal to eat 48 hours after surgery, lethargy that persists more than 48 hours after surgery, crying out in pain, or excessive swelling or redness at the incision site give The Pets I Love a call immediately.
Count on us to provide you with all the information you need to make informed decisions about your beloved pet’s surgical procedures. If you are interested in learning more about surgery procedures or would like to schedule a consultation with one of our veterinarians, please contact us at 845-395-9200. We are here to support you and your pet every step of the way!