Ovariohysterectomy is the surgical removal of the uterus and ovaries and is usually performed in dogs and cats around the age of 5 to 6 months. Performing the spay procedure at this time prevents the first estrus cycle (going into heat). The primary reason for this procedure is the prevention of unwanted pregnancies, but secondary reasons include the prevention of infections, cysts, tumors and unwanted behavior.
Castration is the surgical removal of the testicles and is most commonly preformed around 6 months of age. In dogs, it prevents roaming, aggressiveness, unwanted breeding, prostate disorders and testicular tumors, in cats, it can preventive against fighting, roaming, urine spraying and odour.
Pets can commonly develop various sized and shaped lumps. Frequently, lumps are removed and sent to a veterinary histopathologist to determine the type of tissue and whether it is benign or malignant. Removal of the lump often requires that the pet be put under general anaesthetic.
Foreign bodies are objects that are ingested by patients that cannot be digested naturally. When this occurs, it is common that the object must be removed surgically in order to control any clinical signs such as vomiting, diarrhea etc. Removing the object will also avoid any potential blockage or trauma of the gastrointestinal tract. Foreign Body removal is a procedure that is always preformed under general anesthetic, as it requires the veterinarian to surgically enter the intestinal tract or stomach. Hospitalization and intravenous fluids are required to ensure a proper recovery from this invasive procedure.