Clinton Parkway

The Spay Surgery

The Spay Operation (Ovariohysterectomy)

CPAH Video Describing the Ovariohysterectomy Surgery

Will my pet become fat and lazy?

Even though a large number of our older pets are overweight, spaying them has minimal effect in contributing to weight problems. Proper nutrition and exercise play a much more important part in keeping them healthy and active for many years to come.

At what age should the surgery be done?

Smaller pets should have the surgery done at six months of age. Pets who will weigh over 50 pounds as adults should wait until 7-8 months. Performing the surgery prior to the first heat period is better for several reasons:

• The surgery is easier on a younger pet because the uterus and blood supply is less developed than in an adult.
• The risk of breast cancer in older females can be greatly diminished if the surgery is performed prior to the first estrus period.
• Prevents pyometra (infection of the uterus), a deadly problem seen in older, intact females.
• Unwanted pregnancies and problems with pet over-population can be avoided.

Are there any risks with anesthesia?

CPAH is equipped with the newest technology in pre-anesthetic testing capabilities and monitoring devices to provide the highest level of safety and comfort for all our patients. Our dedicated nursing staff includes more certified veterinary technicians than any other hospital in Lawrence. Anesthesia safety and pain management at CPAH.

• Pre-anesthetic blood tests – ensure that your furry friend is in the low risk category prior to anesthesia. We offer several levels of testing depending upon your pet’s age and risk category. Learn more about pre-anesthetic testing in pets.

What can be done to make your pet more comfortable and pain free after surgery?

• Pre-operative pain control is essential to prevent any patient discomfort. An analgesic injection is given 30 minutes prior to anesthesia to obtain adequate analgesia levels prior to surgery.

• Oral analgesic medications are started the day of surgery and continued at home for another five days.

Our staff will be happy to answer any questions you might have about your pet’s surgery. You are also invited to tour our hospital – we are very proud of our staff and hospital facilities.