I would like to neuter my female cat, but I heard it say there were different ways of operating females. Some vets open on the flanks, while others open in the middle of the belly...
What is the real difference between these two ways of operating? What are the consequences on the health of my cat? Will there be a difference in the recovering of the animal? Is there no risk for a cat which goes out, to practice an operation on the belly, in case there’d be a rupture? How can I be sure that the operation will be correctly performed? Maybe you could reassure us?
There are indeed two different ways of practicing ovariectomy on female cats. The result is however the same: the removal of the ovaries, only the incision differs. I couldn’t tell you which technique is the best: each has pros and cons, and it’s up to the veterinarian to choose, according to the context, his preference and habits. The incision through the white line is preferred for a cycled female going outdoor or living with an entire male, or also if she has been taking a contraceptive pill for months: the surgeon will therefore be able to act directly on the uterus if he finds a gestation or an infection during the surgical intervention. There are risks of rupture, but they are exceptional, as the incision is very small and the stitches are on the skin and abdominal muscles. Besides, in order not to compromise healing, we advise owners not to let their cat go out until the removal of the threads (10/12 days) and we protect the wound with bandage.
The second technique consists in a small incision (1 – 2 cm) on each flank. This solution is preferable in the case of non gestating females, which one has to let go outside because of their “wild” character. Special, self- resorbing threads are then used. This technique should be avoided in the Siamese breed, because the hairs grow back darker on the shaved parts, which is not very aesthetic. Concerning recovery or possible pain, there is difference between the two techniques: the female cat recovers very well as the day after she goes back to normal life, and can feed and move without any problem. The systematic administration of a pain reliever during or after the operation avoids the possible abdominal pain. I’ll also add to reassure you that ovariectomy is a very common surgical act – surgeons practice this operation every day – and that all that concerns the anaesthesia is strictly controlled and mastered. And all the precautionary measures are taken, just like for any kind of surgical, operations. Do not hesitate to ask questions to your vet, or to people who have had their female cat operated. This is certainly the best way for you not to be worried.
Log in
