The spay procedure, otherwise known as ovariohysterectomy, involves the surgical removal of the ovaries and the uterus in the female pet. An ovariohysterectomy is a major abdominal surgery that requires general anesthesia and sterile operating techniques. This surgery is recommended around 6 months of age before the first heat period, which dramatically reduces the risk of mammary gland cancer. Spaying your pet will also eliminate the risk of unwanted puppies or kittens, as well as life-threatening uterus infections in older pets.
Prior to the procedure, your pet will be given a complete physical examination to help ensure it’s safety during anesthesia and surgery. The procedure is performed under general anesthetic, and recovery is usually uneventful. Homecare is minimal, but activity must be kept to a minimum for 7 days to ensure normal healing. Owners also need to monitor for depression, lethargy, swelling/redness or oozing of the incision, and care must be taken to ensure the pet is not licking at its incision.