Pre-Surgical Instructions

Pre-Surgical Instructions

Pre-Surgical Instructions:

  • For kittens and puppies less than 4 months of age, please feed them a small amount (1 tablespoon or less) of food the morning of surgery.
  • For older cats and dogs, do not give any food or treats after 10pm the night before surgery.
  • Pets can have access to water anytime.
  • Pets should be free of external parasites (fleas and ticks) when they are admitted for surgery. If your pet has parasites, we may require treatment before surgery at an additional cost.
  • Please bring cats in a clean carrier with a clean towel inside. If you have more than one animal please separate them in as many carriers as possible.
  • Please bring dogs on a leash. Small dogs can be in a carrier if it is more comfortable for them.

When you get home…

Your pet is recovering from anesthesia and surgery and needs your help!

  • Keep your pet separate from other pets and children in a dark, QUIET place. Prepare the room in advance and let them out of their carrier or off their leash directly into the small room.
  • The night of surgery, feed about ¼ of their normal evening meal and offer water. Soft food is best ifpossible.
  • Take a quick look at your pet’s incision so you know what it looks like,and that way you will be able to see how it is improving over the coming days.
  • All patients receive pain medication which lasts for about 24 hours after surgery. Additional pain medication is available for purchase. Symptoms of pain in a pet may include restlessness, licking at the incision, lack of appetite, vocalizing, and stretching the abdomen area. NEVER give your pet human medication - it could be fatal!
  • Look at the incision daily to check for swelling, redness, or drainage. Contact SpaySA if you have any concerns: (210) 351-7729.

THE 4 MOST IMPORTANT THINGS:

  • Absolutely no licking of the incision area is allowed! If your pet is going to lickor begins to lick their incision, they need to wear an E-Collar (plastic cone) for 7-10 days after surgery. A pet can pull out stitches easily which can lead tohundreds of dollars spent at the vet repairing the damage.
  • Limit activity: no running, jumping, playing for 7-10 days. If your dog or cat is olderthan 5 years they may need a longer recovery period.
  • No swimming or bathing for at least 10 days post surgery. You may clean around the incision with a damp cloth if needed.
  • Check the incision daily for any excessive swelling, bleeding, or drainage.Some hard swelling is normal especially for active animals, but please check with us if you have any concerns. A very small amountof drainage the night of and day after surgery is normal.
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