Scarsdale Pet Surgery FAQ

If you’re a pet owner whose pet needs surgery, you probably have a few questions about the process. It’s important you’re armed with the right information about pet surgery in order to ensure a comfortable experience for your pet and make informed choices about pet surgery. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions regarding pet surgery at Central Animal Hospital in Scarsdale.

Will my pet undergo anesthesia for the surgery?

For most surgeries, your pet will be put under anesthesia. This helps keep your pet comfortable during the surgery and makes it easier for your surgeon to perform surgery without harming your pet. Before anesthesia is administered, tests will be performed to determine whether your pet’s kidneys and liver can handle the procedure. Afterwards, your pet’s overall health and vitals will be monitored to ensure they are in good condition.

How do I get my pet ready for surgery?

Before your pet’s surgery, you will discuss the procedure with your veterinarian and what to do beforehand to properly prepare your pet. In general, it’s a good idea that your pet doesn’t eat anything 12 hours before the surgery takes place. When your pet undergoes anesthesia, it’s best they have an empty stomach or complications may arise. The same holds true for human patients during surgery as well. Your vet will ensure that anesthesia is applied in the safest and most effective manner possible.

What kind of surgeries does Central Animal Hospital in Scarsdale perform?

Veterinarians at Central Animal Hospital in Scarsdale perform a wide range of surgeries, including pet chemotherapy and tumor removal, dental surgeries, spaying and neutering, treating bite wounds and cuts, internal surgeries like removing bladder stones, and a variety of orthopedic surgeries. This is not an exhaustive list, and Central Animal Hospital is equipped to perform a wide range of surgeries for your pet.

What should my pet and I expect after the surgical procedure?

In some cases, your pet can be released following surgery, which allows them to recuperate at home. For other surgeries, your pet should stay in our animal hospital overnight where our staff can track your pet’s progress and step in if your pet needs any further care.

No matter when you take your pet home, you will likely need to follow some care procedures. Your vet will provide you with detailed instructions about how to take care of your pet. This may include providing your pet with certain medication, keeping certain surgical incision sites clean, or making sure your pet follows a new diet. It all depends on the surgery performed and your pet’s health.

Your pet will also likely be provided with pain medication. Do not provide your own pain medication to your pet, as this may damage their organs and lead to other serious complications.

Will my pet have stitches?

For many veterinary surgeries, your pet will require stitches. Sometimes this involves absorbable stitches which actually dissolve into the skin. However, other stitches, known as skin stitches, require removal about 10 to 14 days after your pet undergoes surgery.

No matter what, it’s important that your pet doesn’t chew or bite on his or her stitches. Sometimes your pet will require a pet cone which will prevent your pet from biting or licking the site of the stitches.

If your pet needs surgery or you have further questions about surgical procedures, feel free to call Central Animal Hospital at 914-723-1250.