Animal neutering

Castration—a elective surgical procedure to remove the gonads in males or females. It is performed to prevent unwanted reproduction, as well as for medical or preventive reasons.

At the Zoolux veterinary clinic, they perform neutering procedures on male and female cats and dogs using both standard and laparoscopically assisted methods. The surgeries are performed under general anesthesia with continuous monitoring of the patient’s vital signs.

When is neutering recommended?

Surgery may be recommended:

▫️to prevent unwanted reproduction;
▫️to prevent certain diseases of the reproductive system;
▫️when medically indicated;
▫️to reduce certain manifestations of hormone-dependent behavior;
▫️in cases of cryptorchidism and other reproductive system disorders.

The veterinarian determines the optimal age, method, and scope of the surgery on a case-by-case basis, taking into account the animal’s species, sex, breed, weight, health status, and developmental characteristics.

Age and Individualized Surgical Planning

Cats

▫️Male and female cats can be neutered starting at three months of age following a veterinary examination. Available data do not confirm that performing the surgery at this age has a negative impact on the normal growth and development of most cats.
▫️For a standard neutering procedure, both testicles must be located in the scrotum. If one or both testicles have not descended, the animal is considered cryptorchid and requires a different surgical approach.
▫️For Maine Coon cats, the age at which the surgery is performed is determined on a case-by-case basis due to the breed’s predisposition to epiphysiolysis of the femoral head.
▫️Spaying a cat before her first heat cycle has the greatest preventive effect against the development of hormone-dependent mammary tumors. After surgery, it is important to monitor the animal’s caloric intake, weight, and physical activity.

Dogs

▫️For dogs, the optimal age is determined based on breed, sex, weight, growth rate, and overall health.
▫️For dogs weighing more than 25 kg, the veterinarian may recommend postponing surgery until the musculoskeletal system has fully developed—in some cases, until the dog is over two years old. This is due to a potentially increased risk of dysplasia and damage to the anterior cruciate ligament if surgery is performed too early.
▫️In large-breed female dogs and certain breeds, particularly French Bulldogs and Corgis, there may be a higher risk of developing urinary incontinence after spaying. The veterinarian takes this into account when choosing the age and method of surgery.

Available methods of castration

The Zoolux Clinic performs both standard and laparoscopically assisted surgeries.

▫️Neutering a male cat:  Male cats undergo scrotal neutering: the testicles are removed through small incisions in the skin of the scrotum.
▫️Neutering a male dog: Male dogs undergo prescrotal neutering: access is gained through a small incision in front of the scrotum. After the surgery, an intradermal suture is applied using a material that gradually dissolves and does not need to be removed.
▫️Spaying a female cat:  Depending on the cat’s age, the condition of its reproductive system, and medical indications, the following procedures may be performed:
- oophorectomy—removal of the ovaries;
- ovariohysterectomy—removal of the ovaries along with the uterus.
The surgery can be performed using a standard or laparoscopically assisted technique through a 5-mm endoscopic port.

▫️Spaying a female dog: Before the surgery, the veterinarian examines the dog’s external genitalia and performs a cytological examination of a smear from the vulva. This helps determine the phase of the estrous cycle and identify any signs of inflammation.
If the uterus shows no signs of inflammation or other pathology, an ovariectomy—the removal of the ovaries—may be performed. If pathological changes are detected, the veterinarian may recommend an ovariohysterectomy—the removal of the ovaries along with the uterus.

Female dogs may undergo:
- a standard procedure with an intradermal suture;
-  a single-port laparoscopically assisted surgery—for young dogs weighing up to 5 kg;
- a two-port laparoscopically assisted surgery.

During laparoscopically assisted surgery, the procedure is performed through small incisions using endoscopic equipment and video monitoring. This method helps reduce tissue trauma and postoperative discomfort.

The surgeon determines the final surgical approach and the extent of the procedure after an examination and the necessary diagnostic tests.

Castration for Cryptorchidism

Cryptorchidism — a condition in which one or both testicles have not descended into the scrotum. They may be located under the skin, in the inguinal canal, or in the abdominal cavity.
To determine the location of the testicle, an examination by a surgeon is required, and in some cases, an ultrasound. However, sometimes its exact location can only be determined during surgery. A cryptorchid testicle must be removed due to the increased risk of pathological changes. Depending on its location, the surgery may be performed through a single incision or using a laparoscopic technique. The clinic does not perform procedures to bring the testicle down into the scrotum.

Castration for cryptorchidism differs from a standard procedure in terms of scope and complexity; therefore, the plan and cost are determined on a case-by-case basis following an examination by a surgeon.

Spaying During Heat

Heat is not always an absolute contraindication for surgery; however, during this period, blood flow to the reproductive organs increases, so the risk of bleeding may be higher.

▫️For cats , it is recommended, if possible, to perform the surgery approximately 7 days after the end of estrus. If estrus cycles occur frequently and it is difficult to choose an appropriate time, the surgery may be performed during estrus after the surgeon has assessed the risks.
▫️For dogs, the risk of bleeding during estrus is higher, so it is best to postpone elective surgery. After the estrus cycle ends, it is recommended to wait at least 2–3 weeks. If surgery must be performed earlier, the surgeon will determine the feasibility and method of the procedure; laparoscopic surgery may be preferred.
 

Preparation for Surgery

An appointment is scheduled for a preoperative consultation. The veterinarian examines the animal, assesses its overall condition, and determines whether there are any contraindications to anesthesia or surgery.

Depending on the patient's age, type of condition, and health status, the following may be recommended:

▫️blood tests;
▫️echocardiogram;
▫️consultation with a specialist;
▫️other additional tests.

The owner will receive recommendations regarding feeding, water, and the administration of regular medications at the time of the appointment. These may vary depending on the animal’s age and health condition.

What is a typical workday like?

▫️The animal undergoes a preoperative examination.
▫️If there are no contraindications, the patient is placed in an individual stall in the preoperative preparation and recovery area.
▫️Full payment for the scheduled services is required prior to surgery.
▫️If necessary, laboratory tests and other preoperative examinations are performed.
▫️Surgeries are performed on a first-come, first-served basis, so the procedure may not begin immediately after the examination.
▫️Neutering is performed under general anesthesia with monitoring of breathing, heart rate, temperature, and other vital signs.
▫️After surgery, the animal remains under the team’s supervision until it has fully regained consciousness.
▫️You may pick up your pet only after receiving a call from the veterinarian confirming that the patient is ready for discharge.
▫️Owners are not permitted in the operating room, as it is a sterile area with restricted access.
▫️During preparation, the fur on the pet’s paw may be shaved to insert an intravenous catheter. After the catheter is removed, a special bandage may remain on the paw; this should be removed at home according to the veterinarian’s instructions.

Anesthesia and the Cost of Surgery

▫️For cats, anesthesia is included in the cost of spaying or neutering.
▫️For dogs, the surgical and anesthesia fees are calculated and paid separately. The cost depends on the animal’s weight, the chosen surgical method, the complexity of the procedure, and the anesthetic risk.
▫️For animals over 8 years old, the cost of the surgery and anesthetic care is higher due to the need for a more thorough health assessment and increased anesthetic risk.

The cost may also be higher if the patient has underlying medical conditions, including:

▫️heart disease;
▫️epilepsy;
▫️kidney disease;
▫️endocrine disorders;
▫️other conditions that increase anesthetic risk.

Additional examinations, consultations, laboratory tests, and procedures that are not included in the standard scope of the surgery are billed separately.

In cases of cryptorchidism, estrus, pregnancy, inflammation, or other issues with the reproductive system, the treatment plan and final cost are determined following a veterinary examination.
 

Recovery After Surgery

Upon discharge, the owner will receive personalized recommendations regarding feeding, postoperative care, medication, and physical activity.

▫️Feeding: You can feed your pet at home after it has fully woken up. The first meal should be about ¾ of the usual portion. Water should be freely available.

▫️Physical activity: For 14 days, you should limit:
- running;
-  jumping;
- active games;
- bathing and swimming;
- other intense physical activities.

▫️Postoperative Care: The postoperative area must remain dry and clean. Do not treat it without a doctor’s recommendation. If a protective spray has been applied to the incision, do not wash it off or remove it. Do not allow your pet to lick or scratch the surgical site. If necessary, use a protective collar or cone.
There is no need to change the litter in the litter box unless your veterinarian has recommended otherwise.

▫️Pain Management: The veterinarian prescribes pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications on an individual basis, usually for 2–3 days. After a standard, uncomplicated neutering procedure for a male cat, additional medication may not be prescribed for use at home, since the animal receives the necessary pain relief at the clinic.

▫️What to Expect After Surgery

During the first day, the following may occur:
-  drowsiness;
- a moderate decrease in appetite;
- a cautious gait;
- slight swelling in the area of the surgery.

You should immediately see a doctor if:

▫️The surgical site is bleeding, oozing, or discharging;
▫️Significant swelling or severe redness has developed;
▫️The animal has refused food for more than a day;
▫️Vomiting, diarrhea, or severe weakness are present;
▫️the animal has difficulty urinating;
▫️the animal is not urinating;
▫️the sutures have come apart.

Which branches handle transactions?

Standard spaying and neutering of cats and dogs is performed at all Zoolux locations:

• Kyiv, 39 Dmytrivska St.;
• Kyiv, 42-B Revutskogo St.;
• Kyiv, 2-D Volodymyr Ivasyuk Ave.;
• Brovary, 51 Metalurhiv St.

Laparoscopic surgeries for cats are performed at all branches.

Two-port laparoscopic surgeries for dogs are performed at the following branches:

• Kyiv, 39 Dmytrivska St.;
• Kyiv, 42-B Revutskogo St.

We recommend checking the availability of a specific treatment method and doctor when making an appointment.
 

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I schedule my pet for surgery right away? - An appointment is scheduled for a preoperative consultation. On the day of the surgery, the veterinarian examines the animal and rules out any possible contraindications. If the patient’s condition allows for the procedure, the animal remains in the preoperative preparation area.

Can I find out the exact cost over the phone? - The coordinator can provide the cost of standard services based on the animal’s breed, sex, age, and weight. The final plan and total cost may change after the examination if cryptorchidism, estrus, pregnancy, inflammation, underlying conditions, or the need for additional tests and procedures are detected.

Can neutering be combined with a professional teeth cleaning? - No. Neutering and professional teeth cleaning are separate procedures, so they are performed on different days.

How long will the animal stay at the clinic? - The length of stay depends on the surgery schedule, the duration of the procedure, and how quickly the animal wakes up from anesthesia. You may pick up your pet only after receiving a call from the veterinarian.

Is it necessary to use a collar or a bandage? - Not always. The need to protect the surgical site depends on the surgical procedure, the location of the incision, and the animal’s behavior. The veterinarian will provide final recommendations at the time of discharge.

Can surgery be performed while a dog is in heat? - This decision is made by the surgeon after an examination and an assessment of the risk of bleeding. For elective surgery, it is best to wait for the recommended period after the heat cycle has ended.

Is castration performed in cases of cryptorchidism? - Yes. However, this is a different type of surgery in terms of complexity. The method and cost depend on the location of the testicle and the surgical approach required.

How do I schedule a neutering appointment? - You can schedule a preoperative appointment by:

▫️via the online registration form;
▫️by phone at (097) 344-88-88 or (044) 344-88-88.

When making an appointment, please inform the coordinator of the animal's species, gender, breed, age, and weight, and also mention any chronic conditions it has and any medications it takes on a regular basis.