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Your pet is more than just a companion—they’re a valued member of the family, and their health is important! If your dog or cat needs to undergo a surgical procedure, you’ll need to prepare accordingly. The veterinarians at Hilton Veterinary Hospital in Monroe County, NY, understand that owners may feel a bit apprehensive prior to their pets’ procedure. To ease your nerves and ensure the process goes smoothly, they offer a few valuable tips to help you prepare for pet surgery below. 

Preparing for Pet Surgery

The Night Before the Operation 

pet surgeryDogs and cats that are four months or older should fast, starting at midnight the night before the surgery and ending after the procedure is over. This is so their stomach is empty by the time the veterinarian administers general anesthesia. If they do have food in their system, it may be regurgitated during the procedure. This creates the risk of your pet inhaling vomit into their lungs, which could lead to pneumonia. As such, many veterinary clinics will refuse to perform surgery if your pet has eaten after midnight.

Puppies and kittens who are under four months old are permitted to eat until 6:00 a.m. on the morning of the procedure. This helps keep their blood sugar levels stable during pet surgery. Water is fine throughout the night to keep them hydrated. 

The Morning of the Procedure

Arrive at the pet hospital early to check in and fill out any necessary paperwork. This will also give you extra time to spend with your dog or cat to help them feel safe and comfortable.

The veterinarian will examine your pet one last time before the surgery to ensure the animal is healthy enough for the procedure. If they notice any signs of illness, you may need to reschedule until your pet is in better condition.

If you have additional questions regarding pet surgery, contact the experts at Hilton Veterinary Hospital. Call (585) 392-2937 to schedule an appointment, or visit their website for a full list of their veterinary services.

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