5 Questions to Ask Your Veterinarian Before Surgery

When your pet needs surgery, you may feel anxious and worry about the health of your pet. Besides this, you might also be worried about the risks, costs, and even what happens afterward. Asking the right questions to your pet can give you peace of mind and ensure that your pet gets the best care possible. 

Here are five important questions to ask your vet before the surgery.

1. Understand the purpose of the Vet Surgery

Before agreeing to any procedure, it’s essential to understand why it’s necessary. Ask your veterinarian to explain the diagnosis and why surgery is the best option. Is it to treat an injury, remove a tumor, or correct a chronic condition? Understanding the purpose of the vet surgery helps you feel confident in the decision.  

You should also ask about alternative treatments. Sometimes, there are non-surgical options or less invasive procedures that might work for your pet’s condition. Your vet can explain why they recommend surgery over other treatments and what the expected outcome will be.

2. Prepare Your Pet for Surgery in Advance

Pre-surgery preparation is critical to ensuring the procedure goes smoothly. Ask your vet about any specific instructions, such as fasting your pet before anesthesia or limiting their activity. For some surgeries, your vet might recommend blood tests or imaging to confirm your pet is healthy enough for the procedure.  

Make sure you also ask about medication. Should you stop giving your pet their regular medications before the surgery, or are there any new medications they need? Following your vet’s instructions closely can reduce risks during the procedure.

3. Plan for Post-Surgery Recovery Process 

Every surgery has a recovery period, and knowing what to expect will help you plan. Ask your vet how long your pet will need to rest and whether they’ll require special care at home. Will your pet need to stay overnight at the clinic, or can they go home the same day?  

Inquire about any restrictions on activity, diet, or interaction with other pets. For example, your pet might need to wear an Elizabethan collar to prevent them from licking the incision. Understanding the recovery process helps you create a comfortable environment for your pet to heal.

4. Understand the Full Cost of the Surgery

Surgery can be expensive, so it’s important to discuss costs upfront. Ask for a detailed breakdown of the fees, including the procedure itself, anesthesia, medications, and post-operative care. This helps you understand the full financial picture and avoid surprise expenses later.  

If the costs are higher than expected, talk to your veterinarian about payment options. Some clinics offer financing plans or accept pet insurance, which can make the process more manageable.

5. Prepare for Worst-Case Scenarios

While it’s quite hard to think about worst-case scenarios, it’s important to be prepared. Make sure to ask your vet what steps they will take if complications arise or if your pet doesn’t recover. Knowing about this ahead of time can help you make decisions during this emotional moment.

In some cases, you might need to discuss end-of-life options. If the surgery is high-risk or your pet has other health issues, it’s always good to understand what resources are available, some clinics provide animal cremation services or can connect you with professionals who do.