Surgery & Procedures

Safe, professional care for routine and complex procedures.

From routine desexing to advanced soft tissue and orthopaedic procedures, our experienced team delivers high-quality care with your pet’s safety and comfort at the heart of everything we do.
We also offer a comprehensive range of services including minor dentistry (scale and polish), advanced dental procedures with digital X-rays and extractions, diagnostic imaging such as radiographs and ultrasound, as well as cat grooming.
We take the time to explain your pet’s needs, guide you through each procedure, and ensure you feel confident supporting their recovery at home.

A surgical procedure is carried out on furry pet

Common Procedures We Perform at Mosman Vet

At Mosman Vet, we prioritise your pet's health and comfort during surgical procedures. Our experienced team ensures a safe and compassionate environment for every surgery.

  • Desexing

  • Lump removals and biopsies

  • Wound repair and laceration closure

  • Abdominal surgery

  • Bladder stone removal

  • Orthopaedic surgery

Preparation

What to Expect Before Surgery

Before any surgery, we’ll arrange a veterinary consultation to assess your pet and walk you through the procedure. You’ll receive pre-operative instructions to help prepare your pet for a safe, smooth experience.

  • Pre-Surgical Veterinary Visit:
    Your veterinarian may schedule a pre-anaesthetic examination to check your pet’s overall health. Often this is done during the days leading up to a procedure.
    Blood tests may be recommended to assess organ function, especially in older pets. This is done routinely for animals over 7 years of age. This can be done in-house on the day of the procedure.
    Discuss any current medications, allergies, or past reactions to anaesthesia with your veterinarian.
    Your veterinarian may discuss giving some calming medication prior to the day and/or on the morning of the surgery.

  • Fasting:
    Most pets are required to fast before surgery. No food after 10pm the night before. Remove water in the morning. This is not relevant to all animals; therefore if you are unsure please contact the Hospital.
    Fasting reduces the risk of vomiting and aspiration during anaesthesia.
    If your pet is a Rabbit or Guinea Pig, please do not fast, and bring some of their favourite food on the day of their procedure.

  • Medication Instructions:
    Only give medications your vet approves. Some medications must be stopped or adjusted before surgery.
    Bring a list of any supplements or over-the-counter products your pet is taking.

Terrier sitting with human parent
Illustration of a fluffy dog and fat cat
Procedure

Your Pet’s Safety During Surgery

All sterile surgeries at Mosman Vet are performed in our dedicated operating suite by our experienced veterinary surgeons and nurses. Your pet is closely monitored under general anaesthesia from start to finish, using advanced equipment to ensure their safety, comfort, and a smooth recovery.
Surgery typically involves a carefully managed anaesthetic process, including pre-sedation, induction, and maintenance anaesthesia, followed by the procedure itself and thorough post-surgical monitoring.
Throughout this time, our veterinary team closely tracks your pet’s heart rate, breathing, oxygen levels, blood pressure, and temperature, both manually and with advanced monitoring equipment.
Surgery times can vary depending on the procedure, and your veterinarian will provide you with an estimate and keep you informed every step of the way.

  • General anaesthesia monitored start to finish

  • IV fluids to maintain blood pressure and hydration

  • Pain management before, during and after surgery

  • Heated recovery blankets and close supervision as they wake up

Recovery

Recovery & Aftercare

After surgery, we’ll give you clear instructions to care for your pet at home. Our team is here to answer any questions, and we may schedule a follow-up visit to check healing or remove stitches if needed.

Aftercare plans may include:

  • Recovery at the Hospital:
    Your pet will be observed as anaesthesia wears off.
    Pain management, fluids, and warmth are provided as needed – as well as, of course, plenty of cuddles.
    The vet will phone to organise a discharge time, where we will provide discharge instructions for home care.

  • At Home Care:
    Limit activity: Short leash walks for dogs; cats may need confinement to a small room.
    Monitor the surgical site: Watch for redness, swelling, discharge, or unusual odour.
    Prevent licking or chewing: Use an Elizabethan collar (E-collar) if advised.
    Administer medications exactly as prescribed, including pain relief and antibiotics.
    Give plenty of love and reassurance; your pet may feel anxious or disoriented.

  • Feeding and Hydration:
    Offer small amounts of water first, then a light meal on the first night of anaesthesia, unless otherwise directed.
    Anaesthesia can leave your pet feeling nauseous, please call us if concerned.
    We recommend a bland diet such as Hill’s i/d or chicken & rice.
    Gradually return to normal diet as your pet tolerates it.

  • Follow-up and Rechecks:
    Your vet may schedule stitch removal or a post-op check within 7–14days.
    Contact your veterinarian immediately if your pet shows:
    Vomiting or diarrhoea
    Lethargy or weakness 
    Difficulty breathing
    Persistent bleeding or swelling at the incision site

A dog recovering from surgery with his human parent

Good care starts with Mosman Vet

Whether it’s a routine check-up, an unexpected issue or ongoing care, we’re here to help you make the best decisions for your pet’s health and wellbeing.