When to schedule it
The right age depends on species, breed and size. Your vet will talk through timing for your pet at a puppy or kitten visit, or at any exam.
The day of surgery
Drop off is in the morning. We check your pet, run bloodwork if it has not been done, and give pain medicine before, during and after surgery. A technician monitors anesthesia the whole time.
We call you once your pet is awake. Most pets go home the same evening.
Recovery at home
- Keep your pet calm, and on a leash for walks, until the recheck
- Keep the cone on, so the incision is not licked
- Check the incision once a day
- Call us if you see swelling, discharge, or your pet will not eat
Questions about spay and neuter surgery
Will my pet be in pain?
We give pain medicine before surgery and send more home with you. Call us if your pet seems sore or restless at home and we will check in.
How long until my pet is back to normal?
Most pets act like themselves within a day or two, but the incision needs about two weeks to heal. Keep the cone on and walks short until the recheck visit.
Reviewed by Dr. Corinne Danforth, DVM, October 7, 2026