Spay surgery, or ovariohysterectomy, is the removal of a female animal's uterus, ovaries and fallopian tubes. Spaying your pet reduces her risk of certain cancers, eliminates the possibility of dangerous conditions like pyometra and spares your pet the burden of regular heats. If you have an older pet---a dog, cat, rabbit or ferret---who has not been spayed, there is generally no reason that a routine spay procedure can't be performed. With a competent veterinarian and careful preparation, your older pet can safely undergo spay surgery; and she'll be happier and healthier for it.
Instructions
Make an appointment with your veterinarian. Older pets should have a complete physical, including a preoperative blood panel, to ensure that they are healthy enough to withstand the anesthesia and the spay procedure.
Discuss anesthesia options with your veterinarian. According to the Senior Dogs Project and House Rabbit Society, some anesthetics, particularly isoflurane and propofol, pose less risk to pets than others.
Discuss post-surgical pain management with your veterinarian. Your vet may suggest the use of pain medication for your pet. However, keep in mind that these medications can have serious side effects. It is up to you to determine the best and safest option for your pet.
Prepare your pet for surgery as instructed by your veterinarian. Generally, this simply entails withholding food and water after midnight the day before surgery.
Restrict activity. It's important that your pet rest quietly and not be permitted to indulge in any type of vigorous activity for five to seven days following the spay procedure. Dogs should be permitted outside only on a leash; cats and rabbits should be confined indoors.
Check the incision at least twice per day. Contact your veterinarian if your pet's incision opens, or becomes excessively inflamed, red, painful to the touch or has a discharge.
Follow up as directed. Typically, your veterinarian will want to see your pet again in 10 to 14 days to remove sutures and perform a quick follow-up exam.