Desexing

Desexing is a common surgical procedure that prevents unwanted breeding and may provide a number of health and behavioural benefits for dogs, cats and other pets.

The ideal age and timing for desexing can vary between pets, depending on factors such as their species, breed, size, sex, health and individual circumstances. Our vets are happy to discuss the benefits and considerations with you and help you decide what is appropriate for your pet.

For more information, you can also read Should I Get My Pet Desexed?.

Desexing at Macarthur Vet Group

Your pet’s safety, comfort and wellbeing are our priorities throughout their procedure.

Desexing is performed under general anaesthesia, with appropriate monitoring and pain relief provided throughout the procedure and recovery. Your pet will be cared for by our veterinary and nursing team while they are with us.

We can also desex other species, including rabbits and ferrets. Please speak with our team about recommendations for these pets.

Before your pet’s surgery

When you book your pet’s procedure, our team will provide instructions about preparing them for surgery, including when to withhold food and water and what time to bring them to the clinic.

Please let us know about any medications your pet is taking and any health concerns or recent illness, even if they seem minor.

We’ll also ask for a contact number where we can reach you while your pet is in our care.

Pre-anaesthetic blood testing

Pre-anaesthetic blood testing may be recommended before your pet’s procedure.

Blood testing can provide additional information about your pet’s health that may not be apparent during a physical examination, including information about organ function and blood cells.

Can my pet have anything else done at the same time?

Depending on your pet, it may be convenient to perform other procedures while they are under anaesthesia.

This could include microchipping, nail trimming or other appropriate procedures. If there’s something you’d like us to consider, please mention it when booking so we can let you know whether it can be safely performed at the same time.

After desexing

When your pet is ready to go home, our team will provide you with instructions for their recovery, including feeding, exercise restriction, wound care and any medications they require.

It’s important to prevent your pet from licking or chewing their surgical wound and to keep their activity restricted while they heal.

Your pet may require a follow-up appointment so we can check their recovery and surgical site. Our team will let you know when this is required.

For more information about the procedure and caring for your pet afterwards, see Getting Your Pet Desexed.

How much does desexing cost?

The cost of desexing varies depending on your pet’s species, sex, size, age and individual circumstances.

Additional services or procedures, such as pre-anaesthetic blood testing, may also affect the total cost.

Please contact one of our clinics for a quote for your pet. Our team can explain what is included and discuss any optional or recommended services with you before the procedure.

Have questions about desexing?

If you’re unsure about whether or when to desex your pet, our vets are happy to discuss your options and help you make an informed decision based on your individual pet.

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