Spaying your female pet can have a variety of health benefits. While the outcome is the same, did you know that there is more than one option for the procedure that may be used? Our vets in Torrance talk about laparoscopic spay surgery for dogs and cats, how it differs from traditional surgery, and the benefits.
What is Laparoscopic Spay Surgery?
Traditional and laparoscopic surgery results in the same sterilization when spaying your pet. One benefit of laparoscopic surgery compared to traditional spaying is that it is minimally invasive and allows your pet to recover and return to normal activities faster.
Laparoscopic Spay Technique
The laparoscopic surgery procedure may have slight variations in technique depending on the veterinary surgeon. It generally involves making one to three small incisions along the abdominal body wall. The veterinary surgeon then inserts a camera and surgical instruments through these incisions to perform the laparoscopic spaying procedure.
The surgeon fills your pet's abdomen with CO2 gas to enhance the visibility of the internal organs and structures. Using a camera, the surgeon maneuvers inside and transmits the images to a screen in the operating room. This method allows the surgeon to complete the procedure without entering the abdominal cavity. Once the blood vessels are sealed, the surgeon carefully removes your cat or dog's ovaries.
The Difference Between Laparoscopic and Traditional Spay Surgery
No matter which sterilization method your pet undergoes, it will be under general anesthesia. Before surgery, your pet will need comprehensive diagnostic testing to determine its health status and ensure it can handle the anesthesia and the procedure.
Although both methods are effective, laparoscopic surgery for cats and dogs involves smaller incisions, leading to less tissue trauma, reduced bleeding, and a lower risk of infection.
Benefits of Laparoscopic Spay Surgery For Dogs and Cats
Many benefits are seen when laparoscopic surgery is used for spaying, such as:
- Smaller incisions
- Shorter time in surgery
- Less bleeding
- Faster wound healing
- Quicker recovery time
- Less painful
Laparoscopic spaying surgery has many benefits, but there are specific situations where traditional spaying is necessary. For example, if there is an infection or cancer in the uterus, the traditional technique may be recommended.
Additionally, if a dog or cat is in heat, the veterinary surgeon may advise waiting until the heat has passed before performing any spaying procedure.
What is recovery like after a laparoscopic spay?
After a successful surgery without complications, the vet surgeon will likely release your dog or cat on the same day. Since your pet will have had general anesthesia, they may feel drowsy when you bring them home.
Only allow your pet outside for quick bathroom breaks and gentle walking for the first two days. Your pet should be able to return to normal activities within two to three days after the surgery.
The surgeon will schedule a checkup for your pet around seven days after the spaying surgery to ensure the incision heals without complications. Contact your vet immediately if you notice any bleeding, discharge, or discoloration around the incision.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.
