Surgical Procedures

We use state of the art equipment to perform a wide variety of surgical procedures. Controlling pain during these procedures is essential. Our licensed veterinary technicians are trained to recognize pain and work with the doctors to provide your cat with the necessary pain relief in accordance with the most up-to-date anesthetic protocol.

Our most common surgical procedures include

  • Spay – as early as 2 months old or 2 pounds

  • Neuters

  • Cystotomy – urinary stone removal

  • Thyroidectomy - Removing the affected thyroid gland with cats that have hyperthyroidism.

  • Ear plug removal

  • Leg amputations

  • Tumor removals

  • Enucleations and Entropion repair

  • Esophageal tube placements

  • Perineal Urethrostomy

  • Misc. Exploratory or foreign body surgeries

*Pre-surgical blood work is required within 3 months of a surgical/anesthetic procedure.

Pre Surgery

No one likes the thought of their pet undergoing an anesthetic procedure. This is why Just Cats Veterinary Clinic takes the steps necessary to ensure that your cat stays comfortable and as stress free as possible during his/her anesthetic procedure. Following these guidelines can help us make your cat’s experience safe and healthy.

Follow these instructions before bringing your pet in for surgery:

  • No food after 6am the morning of the anesthetic procedure.

  • Free choice water is OK.

  • Make sure your cat is up to date on vaccines. If there is a question please call.

  • Please inform us of anything we should know prior to surgery.

  • Ask any questions you might have – we want to make sure you understand everything about the surgery beforehand.

  • If your cat has been exhibiting signs of illness (coughing, sneezing, vomiting, diarrhea) prior to your anesthetic procedure please call the clinic for instruction. The doctor will most likely recommend the procedure be postponed.

  • If your cat takes medication, please give the medication the morning of anesthesia as normal. You may offer a small amount of food if needed to administer the medication.

  • DIABETICS- Please feed a 2 tablespoon of food and give ½ the dose of insulin that you would normally give. For example – if you normally give 2 units of insulin, give 1 unit instead.

  • Anesthetic Procedures should be dropped off between 8 and 8:30 am the morning of the procedure. Even if your cat’s procedure is not going to be performed until later that day, dropping off early gives our staff time to do a brief exam and any other procedures needed to ensure your cats safety while under anesthesia. It also allows your cat time to adjust and get comfortable decreasing stress prior to anesthesia.

  • Please allow at least 15 minutes for your surgery drop-off appointment.

  • If evidence of fleas is found we will give a tablet that will kill any live fleas and apply a preventative. The charge for these medications will be reflected on your account.

  • You may call for information about your pet’s condition and for a tentative release time after 2 PM. A discharge appointment will be scheduled so that a technician or doctor can go over any discharge instructions.

All patients receive a pre-surgical exam the morning of the procedure to determine health status. A pre-surgical blood screen is strongly recommended to ensure your cats safety and diagnose any underlying health concerns that may put your cat at a higher anesthetic. 

Perineal Urethrostomy

Our dedicated team of veterinary professionals understands the unique challenges associated with feline urinary tract health, and we are committed to helping cats regain their comfort and quality of life. Our board-certified veterinarian, Dr. Amanda Kennedy, DAVBP (Feline), performs perineal urethrostomys at Just Cats Veterinary Clinic.

A perineal urethrostomy is a surgical procedure performed on male cats to address urinary obstructions or recurring urethral blockages. This procedure involves creating a new opening in the urethra, allowing urine to bypass potential obstructions and flow more freely. It is often recommended for cats with severe urinary tract disease, urinary stones, or urethral strictures that cannot be resolved through other treatments.

At our hospital, we approach perineal urethrostomy procedures with the utmost care and precision. Dr. Kennedy is skilled in performing this complex surgery, utilizing advanced techniques and state-of-the-art equipment. We prioritize the safety and well-being of our feline patients, ensuring they receive appropriate pain management and monitoring throughout the entire process.

Following the procedure, our team provides comprehensive post-operative care instructions to aid in your cat's recovery. We understand the concerns and questions that come with a perineal urethrostomy, and we are here to provide support and guidance to both you and your cat during this time.

Rest assured that your cat's health and comfort are our top priorities. We are dedicated to delivering the highest standard of care, employing a compassionate approach, and maintaining open lines of communication with pet owners. If you believe your cat may benefit from a perineal urethrostomy or have any questions about the procedure, please don't hesitate to contact us. We are here to help your feline companion live a happier, healthier life.

Thyroidectomy

Surgical thyroidectomy is an operation that involves the surgical removal of all or part of the thyroid gland. In cats with hyperthyroidism, this entails either removal of one (unilateral) or both (bilateral) thyroid lobes or parts

The thyroid gland in humans consists of 2 thyroid lobes, which are connected at the base by an isthmus. In cats, the 2 thyroid lobes are not connected and are totally separate.

Surgical thyroidectomy is an extremely effective means of treatment for hyperthyroidism. Because the goal of surgery in these cats is to remove all of their thyroid tumor tissue, this procedure can result in a complete cure of the cat’s hyperthyroidism. In most cats, thyroidectomy is relatively simple and quick for an experienced veterinary surgeon to perform. In practice it is often considered the treatment of choice, particularly if radioactive iodine is not readily available (the only other form of treatment that will ablate the thyroid tumor(s) and cure the hyperthyroid state).