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What To Expect Before, During, And After A Spay Or Neuter Procedure In San Antonio

March 27, 2023

Spay and neuter surgeries are incredibly important for the health, safety, and well-being of our furry friends. If you are preparing your pet for this procedure, here is a comprehensive overview of what to expect at every stage.

Overview Of The Procedure

Prior to surgery, pets receive physical examinations and blood tests to ensure they are healthy enough for anesthesia. The procedures themselves are routine and well-established. Patients typically are ready to leave the clinic within a few hours post-surgery.

Preparing For The Surgery

Pets should have been examined by a veterinarian within the last six months before the procedure. You should adjust your pet's diet one week before the surgery — this will help them maintain their energy levels during recovery. Remove collars on the day of the procedure to prevent complications with anesthesia monitoring.

Recovery Period

Keep pets indoors and confined during the healing period. Offer them plenty of rest until their energy levels return back to normal — however, it's still okay for them to take short walks around the house during this time frame. Monitor incision sites for signs of infection such as redness, swelling, or discharge.

Most pets will resume normal activities within 7-10 days, but keep in mind that full recovery takes up to four weeks.

Follow-Up Care

Monitor your pet for vomiting, appetite loss, bleeding, or excessive licking of the incision site. Follow all post-operative instructions from your veterinarian regarding medications and activity restrictions. Check incision sites regularly and contact your vet immediately if you notice any signs of infection.

If you have questions about spay or neuter procedures for your pet, our team at Traveling Tails Veterinary Clinic is here to help. Contact us to schedule a consultation.