Common Soft Tissue Operations That Pets Undergo
Pets may require various surgeries from routine procedures like spaying or neutering to life-saving operations. General veterinary hospitals offer soft-tissue and certain orthopedic surgeries. However, for more complex soft-tissue surgeries, specialized veterinary hospitals are required. The list below mentions five common soft-tissue surgeries that general veterinary practices generally perform.
#1: Foreign body removal surgery
Pets like cats and dogs often ingest objects that can cause obstructions in their digestive system. As a result, various foreign objects are removed from them, which are commonly found after retrieval.
- Corn cobs
- Clothing, especially socks
- Bones
- Rubber and plastic toys
- Hair bands
- Thread
Cats can be attracted to string-like items that could cause serious internal injuries if they become tangled in their intestines and cut through them. Dogs, on the other hand, are usually more particular about what they chew.
#2: Mass removal surgery
Sometimes, pets may get lumps or bumps that can either be harmless or cancerous. These masses can grow quickly and turn into open wounds. In some cases, they may also grow in a spot that limits breathing, eating, or movement. To get rid of them, surgical procedures can be performed on various areas such as skin, ears, mouth or abdomen.
#3: Spay and neuter surgeries
At regular veterinary practices, spaying and neutering surgeries are frequently performed. These surgeries involve the removal of reproductive organs and are primarily done to prevent health and behavioral issues in pets.
#4: Bladder stone removal surgery
Bladder stones are a common problem for pets and can be caused by urinary tract disease, lack of proper hydration, an unsuitable diet, or genetics. Prescription diets can help dissolve certain types of stones, but in other cases, surgery and flushing of the bladder are necessary to prevent urinary blockages.
#5: Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome repair surgery
Breeds with flat faces such as pugs, English bulldogs, and French bulldogs are gaining popularity. As a result, there is an increase in surgeries to treat their breathing issues, also called brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS). These surgeries involve modifying nostril size, shortening their soft palate, or removing the laryngeal sac to improve their breathing.
Our team can provide you with information about the upcoming soft tissue surgery for your pet. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us.