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pet surgery preparation,pet surgery recovery tips,Preparing for Your Pet's Surgery

Pet Owners

Preparing for Your Pet’s Surgery

Pet Owners

Preparing for Your Pet’s Surgery

Pet Surgery Preparation & Recovery Tips

We understand that it can be stressful knowing your pet needs surgery, and even more stressful when it comes to your pet’s recovery. While each pet and procedure are different there are some general steps that pet parents can take in advance to make recovery as smooth a process as possible for the entire family. Our preparations listed below will encompass some general guidelines.

Before Surgery Day

Before your pet's surgery, confirm their fasting instructions, discuss any medications they take, and prepare your home for their recovery. This includes understanding post-surgery restrictions and ensuring a comfortable and safe environment for them.

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Drop-off Time

When dropping off your pet for surgery, communicate all relevant information to the veterinary team. Prepare for pick-up by asking about safe transportation methods and considering bringing a second person for support.

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Post-surgery Care & Recovery

At discharge, you'll receive medication and care instructions, including activity restrictions and e-collar guidelines. Schedule follow-up appointments as directed and set up a safe, comfortable recovery area at home to limit your pet's movement. Make sure to receive all Buoy’s law information from your veterinarian.

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Have Questions?

Reach out to us! If you need more details or have any questions, feel free to contact us through the form below. We’re here to help!

Contact Us

Have Questions?

Reach out to us! If you need more details or have any questions, feel free to contact us through the form below. We’re here to help!

Contact Us

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Before Surgery Day

To prepare for your pet’s surgery drop-off, make sure to ask your veterinarian’s office about the following information.

  • Fasting: Just like people, pets must have food and water withheld for a certain time frame prior to anesthesia. While the general recommendation is no food or water for 6-12 hours prior to anesthesia, be sure to check with your vet’s office as this may be altered based on age, pre-existing conditions, and scheduling. *Note for Diabetic pets: Please call your vet’s office to create a feed and medication plan as guidelines will differ for pets with this condition.
  • Medications: Your veterinarian’s office should be made aware of all medications and supplements your pet is taking. Prior to surgery, be sure to ask your veterinary team what medications should be given or withheld prior to your pet’s surgery as this will vary with each pet, condition, and procedure. You may be asked to bring certain medications with you, such as those used to treat diabetes, heart conditions, and seizures.
  • Preparing your home for your pet’s return: It is important to make sure your home is set up appropriately for your pet’s return. Many pets will be groggy their first night after surgery, so be aware that they may need extra observation. You will be directed to keep your pet quiet and exercise restricted. The amount of time these restrictions are in place will be based on the procedure that was performed. See the “Special Considerations for Orthopedic Surgeries” below for considerations for pets undergoing orthopedic procedures such as cruciate repairs, fracture repairs, or other procedures involving ligaments and bones. *For cats, it is important that all recovery standards are followed, but your cat should also still be able to maintain litterbox access. After surgery, it may be recommended to temporarily switch your cat’s litter to a pellet or paper litter based on what procedure your pet received.

Drop-off Time

  • At-drop off: It is very important when dropping off your pet to relay any relevant information to your veterinary care team and ask any last-minute questions you may have forgotten. This includes information such as when your pet last ate and drank, what medications they did or didn’t receive that day, reiterating any allergies or sensitivities, and mentioning any other concerns. If you’re in doubt whether something is relevant, please share it with your care team. Be sure to leave the best contact number where you can be reached that day and have your phone nearby in the event of questions or an emergency!
  • Preparing for Pick-up: At the time of drop-off, it may be helpful to ask about any recommendations to make transferring your pet home easier after they are discharged. Ask for tips on how to best lift and travel with your pet in the car immediately after surgery, taking into account that your pet may be groggy or anxious. Prepare for restrictions such as needing a sling, harness, or carrier to make discharge less stressful for you and your pet. If possible, it may be best to have two people present at the time of pick-up so one person is able to hold and comfort your pet on the drive home.

Post-surgery Care & Recovery

  • Medications: At the time of discharge, your veterinary team will provide written care instructions and dispense medications to go home.
  • Activity Restriction: Exercise restrictions will be put in place for your pet based on the type of procedure performed and the typical recovery time.
  • E-collar: Your pet will be sent home with an Elizabethan collar (e-collar) to prevent them from licking or chewing the surgical site. Proper e-collar use is crucial for recovery. If you prefer an alternative type (soft cone or inflatable), bring it to your vet’s office for assessment. Not all alternatives are suitable for every surgery. Failure to follow e-collar instructions can lead to severe complications like infection and suture disruption.
  • Follow-up Appointments: Schedule your pet’s post-surgical checkups as directed, or sooner if you have any concerns. Some procedures may require additional services like bandage changes or radiographs, so coordinate these appointments with your veterinarian.
  • Setting up a Recovery Area at Home: Set up a recovery area at home to restrict your pet’s activity. This can be a large kennel or a small, enclosed space that prevents running and jumping.
    • If using a kennel for recovery, ensure it has enough blankets for comfort (as long as your pet won’t eat them!) and is large enough for your pet to stand and turn around.
    • If using a small, enclosed area, ensure the floors are non-slip and prevent access to furniture, gates, and stairs to limit movement. For cats, maintain litterbox access, and consider switching to pellet or paper litter after surgery.