Introduction
Spaying, also known as ovariohysterectomy (OHE) or ovariectomy (OVE), is a common surgical procedure performed on female cats (queens) to prevent estrus, unwanted pregnancies, and various health issues. This comprehensive guide covers the indications, benefits, surgical techniques, and frequently asked questions about spaying cats to help pet owners make informed decisions.
Why Spay Your Cat?
Spaying is not only about preventing unwanted litter; it also offers numerous health and behavioral benefits. Here are some key reasons to consider spaying your cat:
Health Benefits of Spaying
- Mammary Tumors: Spaying before the first heat cycle eliminates the risk of mammary tumors by up to 91%.
- Elimination of Pyometra Risk: Pyometra, a life-threatening uterine infection, is common in unspayed cats.
- Control of Reproductive Disorders: Prevents uterine, ovarian, and vaginal neoplasia, cysts, and congenital anomalies.
- Management of Endocrine and Dermatological Issues: Helps control conditions like diabetes and certain skin diseases.
Indications for Spaying in Cats
Spaying is recommended for the following reasons:
1. Prevention of Estrus and Unwanted Pregnancies
- Eliminates heat cycles, which can be noisy and stressful for the cat and the owner.
- Prevents unwanted litter, reducing the burden of overpopulation.
2. Prevention of Reproductive Diseases
- Mammary Tumor in cats: Spaying before the first heat significantly eliminates the risk.
- Pyometra: A life-threatening infection of the uterus that commonly affects unspayed cats.
- Uterine and Ovarian Neoplasia: Removes the risk of cancerous growth in the reproductive organs.
3. Treatment of Existing Conditions
- Pyometra: Emergency spaying is often required to treat this condition.
- Uterine or Vaginal Prolapse: Surgical intervention is necessary to correct these abnormalities.
- Uterine Torsion or Trauma: Spaying is performed to address these life-threatening conditions.
4. Management of Congenital Anomalies
- Corrects abnormalities such as uterine or vaginal malformations.
5. Control of Endocrine and Dermatological Disorders
- It helps manage conditions like diabetes and certain skin diseases.
Considerations in spaying in cat
1 Preoperative considerations
- HCT (Hematocrit)
- TP ( total protein)
- In patients >5–7 y, consider electrolytes, liver enzymes, BUN, and Cr
Premedication
- Diazepam (0.2 mg/kg IV)
- Hydromorphone (0.05–0.2 mg/kg IV, IM in dogs; 0.05–0.1 mg/kg IV, IM in cats)
2 Intraoperative considerations
Induction
If premedicated, give: • Propofol (2–4 mg/kg IV), or • Alfaxalone (2–3 mg/kg IV)
If not premedicated, give: • Propofol (4–8 mg/kg) IV), or • Alfaxalone (2–5 mg/kg IV)
Maintenance
Isoflurane or sevoflurane, plus
Fentanyl (2–10 µg/kg IV PRN in dogs; 1–4 µg/kg IV PRN in cats) for short-term pain relief, plus
Hydromorphone (0.05–0.2 mg/kg IV PRN in dogs; 0.05–0.1 mg/kg IV PRN in cats) , plus
Ketamine (low dose; 0.5–1 mg/kg IV),
Fluid needs
Estimated blood loss(EBL)
- 5–10 mL/kg/h plus 3× EBL
- 10–20 mL/kg/h plus 3× EBL if open abdomen
Monitoring
- Blood pressure
- HR
- ECG
- Respiratory rate
- SpO2
- Temperature
- EtCO2
3 Postoperative Considerations
Analgesia
- Carprofen (2.2 mg/kg q12h PO), or
- Deracoxib (3–4 mg/kg q24h for <7 days PO), or
- Meloxicam (0.1–0.2 mg/kg once SC, PO then 0.1 mg/kg PO q24h)
Monitoring
- SpO2
- Blood pressure
- HR
- Respiratory rate
- Temperature
Surgical Techniques for Spaying
Pre-Surgical Preparation
- Incision Site:
- The incision is made in the middle third of the caudal abdomen for cats, as the uterus is more caudal compared to dogs.
- Incision Length: 2-4 cm through the skin and subcutaneous tissue to expose the linea alba.
Step-by-Step Procedure
- Exteriorization of the Uterine Horn:
- Use an OVE hook to locate and elevate the uterine horn.
- Identify the suspensory ligament and stretch it to exteriorize the ovary.
- Ligation of the Ovarian Pedicle:
- Place clamps (Mosquito, Crile, or Rochester-Carmalt) across the ovarian pedicle.
- Apply absorbable sutures (e.g., PDS, Maxon, Vicryl) in an encircling or figure-eight pattern.
- Transection and Removal:
- Transect the ovarian pedicle and remove the ovary.
- Repeat the procedure on the opposite side.
- Uterine Body Ligation (for OHE):
- Ligate the uterine body cranial to the cervix using figure-eight or circumferential sutures.
- Transect the uterine body and ensure hemostasis.
- Closure:
- Close the abdominal wall in three layers: fascia of the abdomen
- linea alba
- subcutaneous tissue
- skin.
Images of procedure
Alternatives to Spaying
While spaying is the most effective method for preventing reproduction, alternative options include:
Medical Prevention (Megestrol Acetate) in Dogs
- Anestrous stage: 0.55 mg/kg PO q24h for 32 days
- Proestrus stage: 2.2 mg/kg PO q24h for 8 days
Medical Termination
Prostaglandin F2α (Lutalyse)
- Cats:
- 2 mg/cat IM q24h for 5 days
- Start at least 30 days after breeding
Cloprostenol (Estrumate)
- Dogs:
- 1–2 µg/kg SC q24h for 5–7 days, starting at least 30 days after breeding
- OR 1 µg/kg SC q48h for 3 doses + Cabergoline (Dostinex) (5 µg/kg PO) q24h for 9 days
Cabergoline (Dostinex)
- Dogs: 1.65 µg/kg SC q48h for 5 days (efficacy depends on timing with LH surge)
Bromocriptine (Parlodel)
- Dogs:
- 0.1 mg/kg/day PO for 6 days (starting day 35 of gestation)
- OR 0.03 mg/kg PO q12h for 4 days (after day 30 of gestation)
Mifepristone (Mifeprex)
- Dogs: 2.5 mg/kg PO daily for 4–5 days (starting day 32 of gestation)
Aglepristone (Alizine, Alizin)
- Dogs:
- 10 mg/kg SC, given twice q24h
- OR 0.15 mg/kg SC given twice q24h
- Cats:
- 15 mg/kg SC q24h for 2 days (starting day 33)
However, these methods may have side effects and are less reliable than surgical spaying.
FAQs About Spaying in Cats
1. What is the best date for spaying?
The ideal age for spaying is before the first heat cycle, typically around 4-6 months of age.
2. How long does it take for a cat to recover after spaying?
Most cats recover within 7-10 days. Ensure they avoid strenuous activity and keep the incision site clean.
3. Are there any risks associated with spaying?
Spaying is a safe procedure, but like any surgery, it carries risks such as infection, bleeding, or adverse reactions to anesthesia.
4. Can spaying cause weight gain?
Spaying may slow down metabolism, but weight gain can be managed with a balanced diet and regular exercise.
5. Is spaying beneficial for older cats?
Yes, spaying can still prevent pyometra and mammary tumors in older cats, though the risks of surgery may be higher.
Comparison: Ovariohysterectomy vs. Ovariectomy
| Aspect | Ovariohysterectomy (OHE) | Ovariectomy (OVE) |
|---|---|---|
| Procedure | Removal of ovaries and uterus | Removal of ovaries only |
| Indications | Pyometra, uterine neoplasia | Prevention of estrus |
| Recovery Time | 7-10 days | 7-10 days |
| Complications | Slightly higher risk | Lower risk |
Conclusion
Spaying is a vital procedure for ensuring the health and well-being of female cats. It not only prevents unwanted pregnancies but also reduces the risk of serious health conditions like pyometra and mammary tumors. By understanding the indications, surgical process, and benefits, pet owners can make informed decisions for their feline companions.
Note
Always consult a licensed veterinarian to determine the best approach for your cat’s specific needs.
