What Happens at the Vets When Your Pet Has an Operation

When your pet requires an operation or procedure under anaesthetic, understanding the process can ease your concerns and help you prepare better. Almost every pet owner will experience this at some point, from routine neutering or spaying to more complex surgeries. While each veterinary practice has its own routines, the core steps remain similar across the UK. Let’s walk through what happens when your pet is booked in for surgery, from the morning drop-off to the moment you collect them again.

Dropping Your Pet Off: Preparation and Fasting

Before any procedure requiring general anaesthesia, your vet will instruct you to withhold food from your pet for about twelve hours beforehand. This fasting ensures an empty stomach to minimise the risk of choking or regurgitation during anaesthesia, a safety measure similar to that used with humans. Some exceptions exist, such as diabetic pets or grazing animals that need continuous digestive activity.

On the morning of surgery, you’ll be asked to bring your pet in early, typically between 8am and 9am. At arrival, a veterinary nurse or vet will explain the planned procedure, discuss any questions, and obtain your signed consent. They will also arrange a convenient time for you to collect your pet or confirm how you prefer to be updated throughout the day. Saying goodbye can be difficult, but remaining calm helps reassure your pet.

After You Leave: Monitoring, Sedation and Preparation

Once your pet is settled, veterinary nurses provide clean, comfortable kennelling, often with soft bedding and familiar toys to reduce stress. Pets who are anxious might have their kennel partially covered to help them feel safe. Your pet’s details and procedure information are recorded clearly, and they’re prioritised in the day’s surgical schedule.

Before surgery, a vet will conduct a thorough physical check, weighing your pet and assessing vital signs like heart rate and respiratory rate. Depending on the operation’s complexity and your pet's condition, an intravenous (IV) line may be placed to administer fluids and medications during surgery. A sedative is then given to help your pet relax.

When sedation takes effect, your pet is moved to a preparation area where an endotracheal (ET) tube or oxygen mask is fitted. This device delivers the anaesthetic and oxygen mix during surgery. Throughout, a veterinary nurse or sometimes the vet themselves monitor vital parameters closely, including heart rate, breathing, temperature, and oxygen levels. They communicate continuously with the surgeon to ensure your pet’s safety. The surgical site is cleaned and sometimes shaved to maintain sterility.

The Surgery Itself: Safety and Teamwork

The surgery is carried out in a sterile operating theatre where the veterinary surgeon, often accompanied by at least one nurse or assistant, performs the procedure. This team approach ensures continuous monitoring and swift response to any changes in your pet’s condition. The veterinary nurse logs vital signs systematically and supports the surgeon throughout.

Recovery: Waking Up and Post-Operative Care

Once the surgery concludes, the anaesthetic gas is switched off while oxygen continues to be supplied, especially crucial to breeds prone to breathing issues. The endotracheal tube is removed carefully as your pet begins to wake, with staff offering comfort and support to prevent injury from unsteady movements.

Your pet is then returned to a quiet recovery area. Depending on the pet’s temperament and condition, they may be monitored intermittently or continuously until they regain full awareness. You will usually receive a call from the vet or nurse once your pet is stable and ready for collection, often late afternoon or early evening.

Food and water are introduced gradually once your pet is alert enough. A bland meal is recommended initially to prevent digestive upset. Your pet may be drowsy for several hours post-operation, so it’s best to keep them calm and restrict physical activity.

Collecting Your Pet: Aftercare and Follow-Up

When you arrive to pick up your pet, you might first meet with a vet or nurse without your pet present. This time is devoted to explaining the surgery's outcome, aftercare instructions, including any medications, wound care, dietary recommendations, and activity limitations. Sometimes a follow-up appointment is arranged to assess healing and remove stitches.

Remember, your pet will likely be groggy and may not react normally for the rest of the day. A quiet, comfortable space at home is ideal for recovery. Immediate concerns such as swelling, unusual discharge, prolonged lethargy, or behavioural changes should prompt you to contact your vet for advice.

Following your vet’s guidance closely ensures a smoother recovery for your beloved companion. This collaborative care continues after surgery, underscoring the importance of responsible pet ownership and ongoing veterinary support.

Common Questions Pet Owners Ask About Surgery

Why must pets fast before surgery? Fasting reduces the risk of aspiration pneumonia and choking during anaesthesia by ensuring the stomach is empty.

How long does recovery usually take? Most pets begin to wake shortly after surgery and recover fully within 24-48 hours, though extensive procedures may require longer monitoring.

What if my pet is anxious about the vet? Inform your veterinary team. Many practices use calming techniques or medications to help reduce stress.

By understanding the veterinary surgical process, owners can feel more confident and less anxious about their pet’s care. This knowledge is a key part of responsible pet ownership.