Or rather – is a laparoscopic spay the right choice for your pet?

Laparoscopic spays are becoming increasingly popular in veterinary medicine due to their minimally invasive approach, similar to the advantages seen in human laparoscopy. Pet parents want the best for their pets, and when it comes to scheduling their pet’s spay, may have learned about the laparoscopic spay option.

So, are they better? And why are they different from a traditional spay? Here’s what sets laparoscopic spays apart:

Less Pain

Studies show that laparoscopic spays are significantly less painful than traditional spays. In a laparoscopic procedure, only a small incision (about 1 centimeter) is needed to insert the scope, which results in less tissue damage and a quicker, more comfortable recovery for pets. Unlike traditional spays, which involve removing both the ovaries and uterus, a laparoscopic spay only removes the ovaries. This approach minimizes trauma and eliminates the need to manually tear the suspensory ligament, which is often a source of discomfort in traditional spay procedures.

Enhanced Precision and Visualization

Laparoscopic surgery provides clear visualization of the organs via a high-resolution camera, allowing veterinarians to perform the procedure with greater precision. The abdomen is gently inflated with CO₂ for visibility, and the ovaries are removed with electrocautery, which minimizes bleeding and risk of complications.

Shorter Surgery and Recovery Time

Laparoscopic spays are typically faster, taking about 10-15 minutes. Though healing time for the incision remains around 10-14 days, the minimally invasive nature of laparoscopic surgery means pets generally feel better faster, with fewer risks, especially for high-energy dogs who struggle with post-surgery rest.

Considering a Laparoscopic Spay for your pet?

So with all that in mind, you may consider a laparoscopic spay for your pet. If you are interested and would like to speak to a veterinarian, please contact us at 949-768-1313 or book online to schedule a consultation.

We are located in Mission Viejo, CA, and are open 7am – 7pm, Monday through Friday and Saturdays 7am – 3pm. We’re here to answer all your questions.

You can also watch this video with our very own Dr. Ashbran where you can hear directly from a doctor about laparoscopic spays and get an inside look at the procedure.