Neutering

Some useful info on neutering

Neutering your pet, not only prevents any unwelcome pregnancies, but it can help prevent illnesses and diseases related to the genital tract.  

After neutering your pets metabolism may change, so if they eat the same quantity of food as before you may notice them putting on weight, so sometimes a slight change of diet is require. Ideally we like to see all animals back for a weight check with one of our nurses 3 months after the procedure.

We also neuter other species  and not just cats, dogs and rabbits - for further information please contact your local surgery. 

Remember that Pet Health Club members get 20% off all neutering.


The Procedure

Prior to the operation it is necessary for the dog or cat to be checked by the vet to ensure that they are fit and well and, in the case of bitches, check that they are not in or coming into season.

Night Before
As the neutering procedure is performed under general anaesthetic it is vital that your cat or dog does not eat anything after 8:00pm. Water should always be left down overnight so that your pet does not become dehydrated but this should be removed first thing in the morning. Rabbits should never be starved prior to operations as their digestive system works much differently to cats and dogs.

On the day
Your pet will be admitted by a member of our nurse team who will go through a consent form with you. This will allow them to check whether your pet is ready for the operation and collecting relevant contact details for the day. Please do allow at least 10 minutes for this admit appointment. They will then admit your pet to the cattery or dog ward, where they will spend the day. After the operation and  once we are satisfied that they have recovered enough, they will be discharged into your care with all the information you require

Post-Operative Instructions
For all pets it is vital that they are not allowed to disturb the wound either by licking, biting or scratching. To help prevent this, they may need to wear a ‘buster collar’ or a bodysuit which prevents them reaching the sutures. Dogs will need to be strictly lead-exercised only for 10 days after surgery to prevent them pulling the stitches or damaging the wound. Female cats will need to be kept inside for the first 10 days (or until their sutures are removed). Male cats can go outside after 24 hours, once the anaesthetic has fully worn off.

We ask that animals to attend post-op checks 2-3 days and 10 days after surgery to check the wound site and ensure they are healing correctly. If sutures have been placed, these will be taken out at the 2nd check-up if they are ready to be removed. Male cats may not need to be seen but will depend on the instructions given at discharge. Post-operative checks are free of charge unless additional medication and treatment is required.

Cat's Protection do offer discount vouchers that can assist with the cost of neutering. Telephone the national neutering helpline on 03000 121212 for more details, or check out their website.