When Does Your Pet Need Surgery?

Signs to Watch For:

Surgery can be a lifesaving and quality-of-life-improving option for many pets. While some conditions can be managed with medication and lifestyle adjustments, certain health issues require surgical intervention to prevent pain, infection, or worsening medical complications. As a responsible pet owner, knowing the signs that indicate your pet may need surgery can ensure timely care and a better outcome.

Common Signs That Your Pet May Need Surgery

1. Difficulty Eating or Oral Pain

• Drooling excessively

• Difficulty chewing or dropping food

• Bad breath (halitosis) indicating infection

• Visible swelling in the mouth or around the jaw

• Loose, broken, or missing teeth

Potential Surgery: Dental extractions, tumor removals, or jaw realignment.

"Pet dental surgery for bad breath and tooth extraction"

2. Persistent Limping or Mobility Issues

• Difficulty standing, walking, or climbing stairs

• Limping that does not improve with rest

• Swollen joints or painful movement

• Reluctance to jump or exercise

Potential Surgery: Orthopedic procedures like TPLO (Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy), FHO (Femoral Head Ostectomy), or ligament repair

"Orthopedic surgery for pets with arthritis and mobility issues"

3. Growths, Lumps, or Masses

• New or growing lumps on the body

• Open sores that do not heal

• Sudden changes in the size, shape, or texture of a mass

• Bleeding or discharge from a lump

Potential Surgery: Mass removals, biopsy procedures, or cancer-related surgeries

"Tumor removal for dogs and cats"

4. Chronic or Severe Abdominal Pain

• Vomiting or diarrhea that persists

• Swollen or distended abdomen

• Restlessness, whining, or difficulty lying down

• Loss of appetite or significant weight loss

Potential Surgery: Gastrointestinal surgeries for obstruction, foreign body removal, or tumor excision

"Emergency surgery for pet intestinal blockage"

5. Urinary or Reproductive Issues

• Difficulty urinating or straining to urinate

• Blood in urine or persistent infections

• Swollen or infected reproductive organs

• Sudden changes in urinary habits

Potential Surgery: Bladder stone removal, cystotomy, or reproductive organ surgery

"Spay and neuter surgery and bladder stone removal in pets"

6. Trauma or Injury

• Deep cuts, wounds, or punctures

• Broken bones or visible fractures

• Severe burns or open wounds that do not heal

• Internal injuries from accidents

Potential Surgery: Emergency soft-tissue repair, fracture stabilization, or wound reconstruction

"Emergency pet surgery for broken bones and deep wounds"