Neutering your male dog or cat is important to help curtail pet overpopulation. In addition, having your pet neutered will make him a better companion. Neutering reduces behaviors such as humping in dogs and spraying in cats. It also makes your pet healthier and decreases the likelihood of certain types of cancer. The surgery is relatively safe, although anesthesia always presents a risk. You will need to prepare your pet for surgery on the evening before he goes to the veterinarian and provide extra care for a couple of days after he comes home.
Things You'll Need
- Carrier for small dogs and cats, or leash for larger dogs
- Blankets or other materials
Instructions
Remove all food from your pet's access the evening before surgery, according to the instructions of the clinic where you will be taking him. Some clinics instruct that food be removed at 10 p.m. and others at midnight. Clinics used to recommend that water be removed as well, but most do not require this now.
Take your cat or dog to the clinic at the specified time the next day. For most neuter surgeries, the pet is dropped off early in the morning -- usually between 8 and 10 a.m. -- and picked up late in the afternoon -- between 4 and 6 p.m.
Be prepared for your dog or cat to still be under the influence of anesthesia when you pick him up. He may be groggy, intoxicated and/or grumpy. For cats and small dogs, bring along a carrier in which he can safely ride home. For large dogs, have a bed prepared in your vehicle on which he can rest safely. Leash dogs when leaving the clinic and until they are inside the house once you're home. Even dogs that are voice trained may not stay with you or come when called if under the influence of anesthesia.
Feed your dog or cat only about half the amount you normally would offer him. Also, limit his water consumption to only about a half-cup to one cup -- depending upon his size - of water an hour. Drinking and eating too much can cause an upset stomach in a dog or cat that has just had surgery.
Keep your pet indoors for a few days following his neuter. This is especially important on the evening he comes home from the clinic. He can become lost or injured while under the influence of anesthesia.
Provide your pet with blankets or other cushioned material for bedding while he is recovering from his neuter surgery.
Monitor your dog's incision site for at least the first week following surgery. Call your veterinarian if the surgery site becomes red, inflamed or swollen.