It’s nerve-wracking getting your pet ready for surgery. However minor the operation, several things still need to be done ahead of time, leaving many pet owners wondering, “How can I get my pet ready for surgery?” “or “What do I need to do after my pet’s surgery? When preparing the pet to undergo surgery, certain items are more crucial than others.
What do you need to be aware of before and following surgery?
Your veterinarian will instruct you in preparing the pet to undergo surgery. To schedule surgery, ensure that you are attentive to your vet’s instructions, and ask as many questions as you’ll need to help make your procedure go as smoothly as you can for both your pet. Note any necessary notes to ensure you follow the doctor’s advice.
Before Surgery
Updated Vaccines
Check that your pet’s vaccinations are current and that you understand the ones needed for surgery (often rabies, Bordetella, distemper, and parvo). Any vaccines your pet does not need should be given at least five days before surgery to ensure they are sufficiently protected.
Pre-surgery lab checkups are also required to ensure our pets are fit for the operation. You can bring your pet to a veterinary diagnostic lab before surgery for lab tests and more.
Monitor Food Intake
Fasting before dental or major surgeries is a must for everyone, and pets are no exception. Before the procedure, your vet will provide specific guidelines for pet food. The general rule is to fast 12 hours before the process; however, there are some exceptions.
The kittens and puppies will be fed small portions to help them remain alert during the treatment. If your pet suffers from diabetes, they’ll receive a small breakfast and an insulin injection every morning. Consult your veterinary dentist or veterinarian regularly about your pet’s food preferences to ensure that your pet and yourself are on the proper track.
Provide a Calm Environment
The pet you love will be exhausted and pain-stricken after the surgery. Instead of waiting for you to set up an appropriate and safe environment for them to recover in, prepare it ahead of time. Avoid having your pet trek through a series of steps by choosing a site that is conveniently accessible.
You should also be situated where you can easily watch and care for them. Be sure their food is close by so they can have food and drink. Make sure that you keep the area quiet so they can take some needed relaxation.
Post-Surgery
No Bath (10 Days Minimum)
Give at least ten days after stitches have been inserted before shampooing your pet. Remember that water might cause stitches to loosen, and shampooing with water, for example, can irritate wounds and stitching. Try a water-free shampoo that does not rinse or a warm rag with a moist cloth over your pet’s coat to ensure they stay clean (while keeping away from sutures).
Provide E-Collar
Keeping your pet from chewing or licking the stitches around the surgery site is part of the post-op pet care journey. That means that your pet must wear the well-known “cone of shame,” commonly referred to as an E-collar or Elizabethan collar. It’s true that they’ll be confused and might start to walk strangely; however, this is to their benefit and will be only temporary.
Check Incision Site Daily
It is crucial to examine the area where the incision was made daily to ensure it is healing correctly. By checking it daily, you will be able to identify an infection and receive advice from your veterinarian on how to treat it (more than likely, they’ll prescribe medication for your pet). Feel free to visit this page for more information.
Conclusion
These are easy methods to ensure that you and your pet are stress-free before and after surgery. It might be challenging to do, but it can help you minimize the other elements that cause problems for both of you after surgery. Remember to call your veterinarian should things get out of control.