At Ace of Spays, we understand that spaying or neutering your cat or dog is a big decision and an important step in ensuring their health and well-being. As a trusted spay and neuter surgical service in Burlington County, New Jersey, we are dedicated to providing the best care possible before, during, and after your pet’s surgery. One of the most important ways you can help your fur kiddo recover smoothly is by preparing your home in advance. Creating a safe and comfortable environment will help reduce stress, promote healing, and keep your cat or dog as comfortable as possible after their spay or neuter procedure. 

1. Set Up a Quiet, Comfortable Resting Area at Home

After surgery, your pet will need a quiet space to rest and heal. At Ace of Spays, we always remind pet parents to keep their furry friend away from the hustle and bustle of daily life, especially in those first few days. Choose a calm, familiar room where your cat or dog won’t be disturbed by loud noises, other pets, or energetic children. Place a soft bed or blanket in this area, ensuring it is low to the ground to prevent unnecessary jumping or movement. Keep the temperature of their area on the warm side for the first night after surgery.

2. Prepare Your Car for Post Operative Luxury

Pet parents visit Ace of Spays from all parts of New Jersey, as well as from Pennsylvania, Delaware, and even New York. Whether you are local to Burlington County, or travelling a long distance, ensuring a smooth, stress-free ride home is just as important as setting up a comfortable recovery space in your home.

For cats, we recommend placing plenty of soft bedding inside their carrier and making sure it’s secured to prevent shifting during the drive. For dogs, bringing extra blankets to keep them cozy is recommended. 

On surgery day, the car should be warm and peaceful. Avoid noise and rowdy interactions. If playing music, keep the volume low. If possible, leave other pets at home. Minimizing stress and providing a calm, warm environment will help set the stage for a smooth recovery.

3. Provide Easy Access to Food, Water, and Litter Box

Make sure your pet has easy access to their food and water without needing to move too much. If you have a cat, place their litter box close to their resting area to avoid excessive walking. At Ace of Spays, we often remind pet parents to offer smaller, more frequent meals if their cat or dog has a reduced appetite post-surgery.

4. Limit Physical Activity

Following a spay or neuter procedure, your pet should avoid excessive movement, such as running, jumping, or playing. Ace of Spays recommends using pet gates or crates to restrict access to stairs and furniture. If your dog is used to being active, consider taking shorter leash walks to allow for bathroom breaks while minimizing activity. For cats, keeping them in a single room with limited climbing options.

5. E-Collar (Cone) & Surgical Suits

Preventing your pet from licking or biting their incision is crucial. Ace of Spays recommends using Elizabethan collars (E-collars) or post-surgery recovery suits to keep pets from interfering with the healing process. These tools may take some getting used to, but they help prevent infections and complications.

You can purchase a cone from Ace of Spays or you can get a cone or post-operative recovery suit elsewhere in advance of surgery. If you buy elsewhere, ensure the fit. Cones need to extend past the nose in order to work effectively. 

6. Monitor Their Incision and Behavior

Keeping an eye on your pet’s incision site is essential for a smooth recovery. At Ace of Spays, we advise pet parents in Burlington County and beyond to check the surgical area daily for redness, swelling, or discharge. If anything looks concerning, contact us immediately. It’s also important to watch for signs of discomfort, such as excessive licking, whining, or a decrease in appetite. If your fur kiddo seems restless or distressed, reach out to Ace of Spays for guidance.

7. Show Extra Love and Patience

Extra love and patience go a long way during your pet’s recovery period. At Ace of Spays, we encourage pet parents to comfort their furry family member with gentle pets, soothing words, and plenty of reassurance. Keeping them calm and stress-free will make the healing process easier for both of you.

Author: Your Ace of Spays Veterinary Care Team