Deciding to spay or neuter your pet is one of the most responsible choices you can make as a pet owner. Beyond preventing unwanted litters, these common surgical procedures offer numerous health benefits, including reduced risk of certain cancers and behavioral improvements. However, preparing for your pet’s surgery can feel overwhelming if you don’t know what to expect during the pre-operative period.
At Murieta Pet Hospital, our team of UC Davis-trained veterinarians understands your concerns about your furry family member’s upcoming procedure. With our state-of-the-art surgical facilities and experienced surgical team, we’re committed to making your pet’s spay or neuter experience as safe and stress-free as possible. Let’s explore what you should know before your pet’s surgery day arrives.
Pre-Surgical Consultation
Before scheduling your pet’s spay or neuter procedure, we’ll conduct a thorough pre-surgical consultation. This important step ensures your pet is healthy enough for anesthesia and surgery.
During this consultation, our veterinarians will:
- Perform a complete physical examination to assess your pet’s overall health
- Discuss your pet’s medical history and any current medications
- Recommend appropriate pre-surgical blood work to evaluate organ function
- Answer any questions you might have about the procedure
- Provide specific pre-operative instructions based on your pet’s needs
This consultation typically occurs one to two weeks before the scheduled surgery date, giving us ample time to address any health concerns. If your pet has any underlying conditions, we may recommend additional testing or treatment before proceeding with surgery.
Timing Considerations
The ideal age for spaying or neutering varies depending on your pet’s species, breed, and size. For most cats and small to medium dogs, we typically recommend performing these procedures between four and six months of age.
For larger breed dogs, our veterinarians may suggest waiting until they’re slightly older (around 12-18 months) to allow for proper bone and joint development, especially in breeds predisposed to orthopedic issues. Every pet is unique, and our team will work with you to determine the optimal timing for your specific pet.
Remember, female pets can often be spayed while in heat, though this may increase surgical time and complexity. Male pets can be neutered at any time after their testicles have descended. During your consultation, we’ll discuss the best timing for your individual pet’s needs.
Pre-Surgery Preparation
Proper preparation in the days leading up to surgery helps ensure your pet’s safety during the procedure and supports a smooth recovery afterward.
In the 24 hours before surgery, you’ll need to:
- Fast your pet according to our specific instructions (typically 8-12 hours before surgery)
- Continue providing access to water until the morning of surgery
- Keep your pet indoors the night before surgery
- Follow any medication instructions provided by our team
- Prepare a quiet, comfortable recovery space at home
It’s important to note that fasting requirements may vary based on your pet’s age, size, and health status. Puppies and kittens, for instance, may have shorter fasting periods to prevent hypoglycemia. Our team will provide you with detailed instructions tailored to your pet’s needs.
What to Bring on Surgery Day
On the day of your pet’s procedure, arrive at your scheduled check-in time with:
- Your pet secured in an appropriate carrier or on a leash
- Any medications your pet is currently taking
- Contact information where you can be reached throughout the day
- Any forms provided during your pre-surgical consultation
- Payment for the procedure (unless previously arranged)
Most spay and neuter procedures are performed on an outpatient basis, meaning your pet will go home the same day. However, we’ll want to ensure you’re available by phone during the procedure in case our team needs to reach you.
Trust Murieta Pet Hospital for Your Pet’s Surgical Needs
At Murieta Pet Hospital, our team of UC Davis-trained veterinarians provides exceptional surgical care using the most advanced equipment available. We perform numerous spay and neuter procedures each week, utilizing the safest anesthesia protocols and pain management techniques to ensure your pet’s comfort and safety.
We understand surgery can be stressful for both pets and their owners, which is why we approach each procedure with compassion and thoroughness. For more information about spaying or neutering your pet, or to schedule a pre-surgical consultation, please call us at (916) 885-0288 or fill out our contact form.
