Postoperative Pain and Recovery Following Ovariohysterectomy and Orchiectomy in Canines and Felines

Abstract

This study investigates immediate postoperative recovery in dogs and cats undergoing ovariohysterectomy or orchiectomy, two common procedures in small animal veterinary practice. Clinical and behavioural parameters were assessed during the first hours after surgery, and postoperative signs and complications were evaluated over the following week. A total of 40 animals were included, with the Feline Grimace Scale (FGS) applied to objectively assess pain in cats, while in dogs, behavioural observations and a simplified scoring system based on appetite, mobility, and general demeanour were used to estimate postoperative discomfort. The results revealed a low overall incidence of postoperative pain (12.5%), with a higher frequency observed in females undergoing ovariohysterectomy, likely due to the procedure’s invasiveness. The most frequent clinical signs were lethargy and wound licking, particularly in cats. No infections or serious complications were reported; wound dehiscence was rare (4%), and no association was found between the antiseptic product used at home and local complications. The findings suggest that the analgesic protocols used were largely effective. A systematic assessment approach—combining clinical observation with validated pain scales—proved essential for early pain detection and treatment. The study provides valuable insights for improving postoperative care and promoting animal welfare in clinical veterinary settings