Article Release: Issue 12
Release Date: October 16, 2024
Written By: Karla A. Hojas & Dr. Tomas Infernuso DVM, DACVS

As cat parents, we understand how stressful it can be when your feline friend needs surgery. Whether it’s a routine procedure like spaying or neutering, or something more complex like tumor removal or fracture repair, it’s natural to have questions and concerns. At the Animal Surgical Center (ASC), we prioritize providing compassionate care and ensuring that pet owners feel confident about the procedures their cats undergo.

In honor of Global Cat Day, we want to share important information about common surgeries for cats, how to prepare, and what to expect during recovery.

 

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Cat surgeries fall into three categories:

• Elective Surgery: Procedures such as spaying and neutering are common examples. These surgeries are not life-threatening but are highly recommended for the health and well-being of your cat.
• Non-Elective Surgery: This type of surgery is necessary but not urgent. Examples include dental work and growth removal.
• Emergency Surgery: Trauma-related surgeries, like treating injuries or addressing life-threatening conditions such as urinary blockages, are classified as emergencies. In these cases, immediate intervention is required to save the cat’s life.

Common Cat Surgeries at ASC

As a specialty hospital, we focus on advanced, complex surgeries such as trauma-related procedures (fracture repairs) and oncologic surgeries (tumor removal). We collaborate closely with the local veterinary community, who handle routine surgeries, to ensure that every pet receives the specialized care they need. Some of our most common surgeries include:

• Tumor Removal – Necessary when a mass needs to be biopsied or removed.
• Fracture and Wound Repair – In cases of trauma or accidents.
• Foreign Object Removal – Sometimes curious cats swallow objects that need to be surgically removed to avoid life-threatening obstructions.

Pre-Surgical Care

Before any procedure, we conduct a thorough pre-surgical evaluation. This involves lab work to check your cat’s red and white blood cell count, organ function, and overall health. This information helps us ensure your cat is ready to safely undergo anesthesia and recover from surgery.

What to Expect on Surgery Day

On the day of your cat’s surgery, you can expect thorough care from our veterinary team. We’ll walk you through the procedure and ensure that your pet’s comfort and safety are our top priority. We’ll also take special steps to keep you informed throughout the process.

Pre-Surgery: Before surgery, our team will complete all pre-operative checks, including lab work to ensure your pet is healthy enough for anesthesia. We’ll discuss the procedure in detail and answer any last-minute questions you may have.

During Surgery: Your pet will be closely monitored by a trained veterinary technician, who will keep an eye on vital signs such as heart rate, oxygen levels, and blood pressure, ensuring your pet remains stable during the procedure. The surgeon also provides secondary monitoring throughout to ensure your pet’s safety.

Post-Surgery Updates: As animal lovers, we want you to feel at ease knowing your pet is in great hands. To help ease any worries, we will take pictures of your pet before and after surgery, including sweet moments when they’re waking up from anesthesia, and send them to you. This way, you can see firsthand how your pet is doing and feel connected to the care they’re receiving.

Recovery After Surgery

Recovery times vary depending on the surgery, but in general, cats need 10 to 14 days of recovery after soft-tissue surgery. Orthopedic surgeries may take several weeks or months. During this period, it’s crucial to keep your cat calm, ensure they get plenty of rest, and follow any discharge instructions provided by your veterinarian. You may be asked to restrict your cat’s movement or use a cone to prevent them from licking or biting the surgical site.

Helping Your Cat Heal at Home

After surgery, creating a peaceful and low-stress environment is vital to ensure proper healing. Here are some tips for helping your cat recover at home:

• Keep them calm: Avoid too much activity right after surgery.
• Follow instructions: Adhere to the discharge care plan, including medication schedules and monitoring the surgical site.
• Use the cone of shame: If your vet prescribes a cone or collar, make sure your cat wears it to prevent complications.

At ASC, we are dedicated to ensuring that every cat receives the best care possible. Whether it’s a routine surgery or a more complex procedure, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. If you have concerns about your cat’s health or surgery, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team.

With Compassion and Care,
The ASC Team