Pet veterinary surgery should not appear to be stressful or frightening. You will make the ride even more enjoyable if you better train your pet and yourself! Continue reading to discover the fundamentals of pet surgery and what to expect.
UNDERSTANDING THE PROCEDURE BEFORE SURGERY
When you plan your pet’s surgery, your doctor will give you planning instructions. Make sure you inquire ahead of time about something unique to your pet, such as whether they take medicine or have a medical problem that allows them to feed rather than fast, so you can be thoroughly informed.
DROPPING OFF YOUR PET
Once you bring your pet for surgery, make sure you ask all of your questions before you go. Your vet should be capable of answering any inquiries you have before the surgery so you can leave with the knowledge that your pet is in good hands. You will then be required to sign legal consent forms stating that you consent to the vet performing the procedure and any agreed-upon pre-anesthetic examinations or dog MRI.
PICKING UP YOUR PET AFTER SURGERY
Because of advancements in medical medicine, your pet can heal easily from surgery! Your veterinarian may or may not want to keep them overnight for observation, depending on the treatment. When you come to pick up your cat, they may be behaving naturally, but they may be sleepy or disoriented.
Your vet clinic will give you discharge orders, so make sure you read them thoroughly before leaving. You should be aware of the following:
- Whether or not your pet needs treatment, as well as dose information
- If you need to return for suture removal or a check-up, please do so.
- How to inspect and care for the areas around the operation
- What to look for in a healed incision and how to keep it clean and dry
- If your cat or dog needs a follow-up visit, make it when you’re there so you don’t miss it.
CARING FOR YOUR PET
The type of surgery your cat or dog undergoes will decide how much post-surgery treatment and attention they need. When you are away from home, they can need to be limited to a small area, such as a room or cage, or isolated from other pets.
If your pet has an incision where they can access, the veterinarian would most likely advise you to use an e-collar to keep them from licking the wound. Every day, inspect the area for bruising, swelling, oozing, and bleeding. You’ll probably want to prevent your pet from playing too much when they’re resting, so take dogs outside on a leash rather than making them run around for several days to a week after surgery.
Pay attention to your pet and make sure they aren’t exhibiting any symptoms of illness, such as lethargy, shivering, diarrhea, vomiting, lack of appetite, or refusal to drink water. If your cat or dog exhibits either of these symptoms after surgery, contact your veterinarian immediately.
Only keep in mind that surgical operations are common, and veterinarians are well qualified to treat and care for your pet. Your pet will soon be happier and better than ever if you follow your vet’s advice and give your pet a little extra TLC! To know more about pre surgery information, click here.
