Pre-Anaesthetic Instructions for Dogs and Cats
Your pet is scheduled to undergo a general anaesthetic at Pittwater Animal Hospital. Please read through these instructions to help ensure the process goes smoothly and your pet is comfortable before, during, and after the procedure.
The Day Before the Procedure
- Our reception team will call you to confirm the procedure details, review what is expected, and provide an estimated cost.
- We’ll also review your pet’s vaccination and parasite control status, and you may be provided with an approximate discharge time.
- We’ll confirm your contact numbers. Please be prepared to answer any calls from PAH on the day, as we may need to modify procedures at short notice. Note: One of our phone lines may show No Caller ID, so please bear this in mind.
Preparing for Surgery
- Give your dog a bath a few days before surgery so they are nice and clean.
- You should receive a confirmation text from PAH the day before your pet’s procedure.
- The Night Before Surgery: Feed your pet as usual, but remove any uneaten food by 9 pm. Keep a water bowl available overnight but remove it early in the morning.
- The Morning of Surgery: Take your dog for a short walk to go to the toilet. Cats can ideally use the litter tray before arrival.
- Arrival Time: Aim to arrive with your pet between 7:45 am and 8:15 am. Our receptionist will greet you and confirm the day’s procedures. In some cases, a veterinary examination may be scheduled at the time of admission.
- Pre-Anaesthetic Blood Test: We recommend a pre-anaesthetic blood test for all pets, unless they have had a recent blood profile.
Post-Surgical Recovery and Protection
Most pets are discharged the same day between 11 am and 4 pm. For at-home care after any procedure at PAH, please refer to our After Care page for detailed instructions.
We highly recommend investing in either a MediSuit or a donut collar to help your pet avoid licking or biting at their surgical site, which is crucial for proper healing. These alternatives are often more comfortable for pets than traditional e-collars.
- MediSuit: A pet MediSuit is a soft body suit that provides coverage for surgical areas, allowing your pet to move comfortably while protecting the incision.
- Where to Buy: Google pet recovery suit or pet medisuit
- Donut Collar: Donut collars are cushioned, donut-shaped collars that prevent pets from reaching their wounds. These are less obtrusive than the traditional plastic cone and allow for more comfortable movement.
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- Where to Buy: Pet shops or amazon
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Both of these items can enhance your pet’s comfort and healing experience following their procedure. Please feel free to message us on our website’s chatline during office hours if you have questions about what might work best for your pet.
Additional Information:
For questions or appointments use our website’s chatline during office hours, or call us at 9913 7979.
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