A castration, is the surgical removal of both testicles while leaving the scrotum intact. This procedure is a permanent, irreversible process.
Do not feed your pet the day of the procedure. Remove all food from the night before. Water may remain available at all times.
What to Expect:
Preparation:
Hair will be clipped from your cat’s front leg to allow for intravenous anaesthesia to be administered.
The area around the surgical site (the scrotum) will also be clipped and cleaned to ensure a sterile environment.
Procedure:
Once your cat is under general anaesthesia, the veterinarian will surgically remove both testicles.
Your cat will be closely monitored throughout the procedure and during recovery to ensure their safety.
Aftercare:
Your cat will be sent home with a buster collar and/or pet shirt to prevent them from licking or scratching the surgical site, which could lead to complications.
You will receive detailed aftercare instructions to ensure a smooth recovery process.
Benefits of Castration:
Castration provides several long-term health and behavioural benefits for your cat, including:
Reduced urge to spray: If your cat sprays, the scent will likely be less pungent.
Prevention of unwanted pregnancies: Castration eliminates the risk of impregnating female cats.
Decreased roaming behaviour: Castrated cats are less likely to roam, reducing the risk of accidents or getting lost.
Reduction in aggression: Castration may help reduce fighting and territorial aggression, which can result in fewer injuries and infections.
Potential Risks and Complications:
While castration is a routine and generally safe procedure, complications can occur. Please review the following list carefully, and do not hesitate to ask our staff if you have any questions.
Possible Complications Include:
Haemorrhage (bleeding): Can occur during or after surgery.
Wound infection or breakdown: Infection at the surgical site or issues with healing.
Bruising and swelling: Mild to moderate swelling is possible.
Seroma: A fluid-filled pocket may form at the surgical site.
Damage to the penis: Rare but possible due to the proximity of the surgical site.
Pain: Your cat will be given pain relief to manage discomfort, but some tenderness may persist.
Suture reaction: Some cats may experience a reaction to the suture material used.
Anaesthetic risks: These include rare but serious complications such as respiratory or cardiac issues, and in extremely rare cases, death.
Recovery injuries: Your cat may injure themselves while waking from anaesthesia or if they are overactive during recovery.
Our Commitment to Safety:
We take every precaution to minimise risks to your pet. This includes:
Using sterile surgical techniques.
Providing comprehensive monitoring during anaesthesia and recovery.
Administering appropriate pain relief and post-operative care.
Owner Responsibility:
Please be aware that you, as the owner, are responsible for any costs associated with post-operative complications. Following the aftercare instructions and using the provided buster collar and/or pet shirt will help reduce the likelihood of complications.
If you have any questions or concerns about the procedure or aftercare, please speak with our team. We are here to ensure the best possible outcome for your cat.