Spaying a bitch (ovariohysterectomy)
Removal of the ovaries and uterus under general anaesthesia with full monitoring. It prevents pyometra and reduces the risk of mammary tumours. A planned procedure, usually a day case.
What it involves
Ovariohysterectomy is the removal of the ovaries together with the uterus through an incision along the midline of the abdomen. After the procedure the bitch has no heats, cannot become pregnant and will not develop pyometra — one of the most common emergency operations in unspayed bitches.
Spaying carried out before the first or second heat significantly reduces the risk of mammary tumours. For the owner it also means an end to false pregnancies and to spotting every six months.
The procedure is one of the most commonly performed, but it is a full abdominal operation. That is why we carry it out to standards STD-01 to STD-06: from the assessment with a blood test to written instructions at discharge.
When it is used
Most often as an elective procedure in a healthy bitch, outside a heat — ideally 2–3 months after it ends, when the uterus has a poor blood supply. We discuss the timing in relation to the first heat individually, taking the breed and size of the dog into account.
For medical reasons: ovarian cysts, recurrent false pregnancies, changes in the uterus seen on ultrasound, or as part of treating diabetes in a bitch, where hormonal fluctuations make it harder to control blood glucose.
Indications: symptoms that should prompt a visit
- The bitch has heats and the owner does not plan a litter.
- After every heat the bitch has a false pregnancy — she produces milk, carries toys around and is restless.
- Heats are irregular, prolonged or very heavy.
- Ultrasound has shown ovarian cysts or a thickened uterine wall.
- The bitch has diabetes and her blood glucose “swings” during heats.
- The owner wants to reduce the risk of mammary tumours and eliminate the risk of pyometra.
Conditions for which we use it in particular
Diagnostics beforehand
In line with standard STD-01, every bitch has a clinical examination and a blood test in our laboratory before the procedure (blood count, biochemistry including kidney and liver parameters). We have the result the same day, so the assessment can be completed in one visit.
In bitches over 6–7 years of age, or with a heart murmur, we add a cardiac examination. We perform an abdominal ultrasound when we suspect changes in the uterus or ovaries, and also to plan the extent of the procedure.
How it proceeds
The bitch arrives in the morning, fasted. After the examination and the signing of consent we place an IV cannula and give premedication, including painkillers given before the operation begins (STD-04). General anaesthesia is inhalational, with intubation; the anaesthetist monitors the ECG, saturation, capnography, blood pressure and temperature.
The patient is warmed with a warm-air blower — chilling during abdominal surgery slows recovery and healing. Incision along the linea alba of the abdomen, removal of the ovaries and uterus, haemostasis check, layered closure of the abdominal wall. The procedure takes roughly 45–90 minutes, depending on the size of the bitch and the amount of fat tissue.
Recovery in a heated hospital recovery area under observation. Most bitches go home in the evening of the same day; large breeds or patients with concurrent diseases may stay overnight — the lead veterinarian decides.
Aftercare
A collar or body suit for 10–14 days, walks on the lead only, no running, jumping onto the sofa or baths. Give painkillers (usually 4–7 days) until the course is finished, according to the schedule. Feed as before.
Wound check after 2–3 days, removal of sutures after 10 days if non-absorbable sutures were used. Call immediately if fluid leaks from the wound, the abdomen is hard and painful, the gums are pale, the bitch vomits or is clearly weak.
Frequently asked questions
Should I spay before the first heat?
Spaying before the first heat gives the greatest protection against mammary tumours, but in large breeds spaying too early may affect skeletal development. We choose the timing according to the dog's breed and size.
Can a bitch have urinary incontinence after the procedure?
In some bitches, more often large breeds, urine leakage related to oestrogen deficiency may appear after years. It is a condition that can be treated with medication.
Can only the ovaries be removed?
Yes, ovariectomy is possible in young bitches with a healthy uterus. We discuss the choice of method during the consultation.
How long does recovery take?
Full wound healing takes about two weeks. During that time the dog must have restricted exercise; after that, gradually return to normal activity.
Will the bitch put on weight?
Energy requirements fall. We adjust food portions, and at discharge you receive a specific recommendation for the amount.
We manage every case individually. The scope, indications and course described above are indicative; we agree the exact diagnostic and treatment plan during the consultation. This content is for information only and does not replace a veterinary consultation.
Questions about spaying a bitch?
Call us or book a consultation. We will set out the diagnostic and treatment plan in writing, before you decide.