Hearing that your pet needs surgery can be stressful—whether it’s a routine procedure like a spay or neuter, or something more urgent like tumor removal or orthopedic repair. While it’s natural to feel anxious, good preparation goes a long way in making the experience smoother and less stressful for both you and your pet.
If you live in or around Douglas, CT and your pet is scheduled for surgery, here’s what you should know before, during, and after the procedure to help them stay safe and recover well.
Before Surgery: Getting Ready at Home
1. Follow Pre-Surgery Fasting Instructions Carefully
Most pets undergoing anesthesia will need to fast—this means no food for a set number of hours prior to surgery. The typical rule is no food after midnight the night before, but this can vary depending on your pet’s age, health, and the type of procedure.
- Why it matters: Anesthesia can cause nausea. An empty stomach reduces the risk of vomiting and aspiration during surgery.
- What to avoid: Treats, table scraps, or “just a little snack” in the morning. Even small amounts can delay or cancel the procedure.
Water is often allowed up until a few hours before check-in, but always double-check with your vet for exact timing.
2. Give Medications Only If Instructed
If your pet is on daily medication, do not assume you should give it as usual. Some medications are fine to administer before surgery; others need to be skipped.
- What to do: Bring a list of all medications (including supplements) and ask your vet exactly what should be given and when.
3. Bathtime and Grooming
It’s a good idea to give your dog or cat a bath a day or two before surgery, especially if they’ll be wearing a cone or limited in movement afterward.
- Why it helps: It keeps the surgical site clean and reduces the need for washing during recovery.
- Trim nails too, especially if your pet will be on restricted activity after surgery.
The Morning of Surgery: Staying Calm and Organized
4. Keep Things Low-Stress
Animals can pick up on your emotions. Staying calm and positive helps your pet feel more at ease.
- Take a short, relaxed walk (for dogs) before heading in, but avoid vigorous activity.
- Use a secure carrier for cats and small dogs, and leash larger dogs for safety.
5. Bring the Essentials
Prepare a small bag with:
- Your pet’s medications
- Your contact info and emergency contact
- A familiar blanket or toy for comfort (optional, depending on hospital policy)
- Any required paperwork, like medical records or lab results
Be sure you understand drop-off times and ask any last-minute questions before you leave.
During Surgery: What to Expect
6. Know That Anesthesia Is Safer Than Ever
Modern veterinary anesthesia is very safe, especially when pets are carefully screened with pre-surgical exams and bloodwork. Monitoring devices track heart rate, oxygen levels, and other vital signs throughout the procedure.
- If your vet recommends pre-anesthetic bloodwork, it’s for good reason—it helps ensure your pet can safely process anesthesia.
- Most pets are placed on IV fluids to maintain hydration and support circulation.
7. Stay Available by Phone
Your vet may call you during or after the procedure for updates or to confirm pickup times. Keep your phone on and stay within a reasonable distance of the clinic.
After Surgery: Recovery and Home Care
8. Follow Discharge Instructions Closely
When you pick up your pet, you’ll receive detailed instructions for at-home care. This may include:
- Medication schedules (pain relievers, antibiotics, etc.)
- Feeding instructions
- Activity restrictions
- How to monitor the incision site
Ask questions if anything is unclear—and don’t hesitate to call if concerns arise at home.
9. Create a Safe Recovery Space
Set up a quiet, comfortable area where your pet can rest undisturbed.
- Keep other pets and small children away at first.
- Use baby gates or crates if needed to limit movement (especially after orthopedic procedures).
- Keep stairs and slippery floors off-limits during early recovery.
10. Protect the Incision Site
Most pets will be sent home with an e-collar (cone) or recovery suit to prevent licking or chewing the incision.
- Do not remove it early, even if your pet seems annoyed. Interfering with stitches can cause infection or reopen the wound.
- Check the incision daily for redness, swelling, discharge, or odor.
When to Call Your Vet
While mild grogginess and reduced appetite are normal for 24–48 hours after anesthesia, contact your veterinarian immediately if you notice:
- Persistent vomiting or diarrhea
- Refusal to eat or drink beyond the first day
- Excessive swelling or bleeding at the incision
- Difficulty breathing
- Lethargy that worsens instead of improves
Trust your instincts—if something feels off, it’s better to ask.
Final Thoughts
Surgery can be a scary word, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By preparing thoughtfully, asking the right questions, and following post-op care closely, you’ll give your pet the best chance for a smooth and full recovery.
Whether it’s a routine procedure or a more complex surgery, your role in the process is just as important as the work done at the hospital. With the right care, your pet will be back to their happy, healthy self in no time. We recommend Douglas Animal Hospital.
