142 



OVARIOTOMY IN THE CAT 



in the same manner as by the flank method. By passing an 

 index finger forward to reach the lower surface of the rec- 

 tum in front of the uterus and then drawing it backwards 

 the finger passes between the former and the cornua and 

 the latter are picked up. It has a distinct advantage over 

 the flank method in that in puppies there is not so much 

 difficulty in bringing out the ovaries, nor the danger of the 

 rupture of the cornua and the ovary being retained. 



By the use of retractors in the abdominal incision the 

 operator is enabled to see the uterus in position and grasp it 

 by means of forceps, obviating the necessity for introducing 

 the finger into the peritoneal cavity. 



The sutures must extend entirely through the abdominal 

 wall and be carefully placed in order to prevent hernia. 

 Interrupted sutures are preferable. If the operation has 

 been properly performed no bandage is necessary and the 

 patient will not disturb the sutures. If asepsis has not been 

 strictly followed infection may occur and the consequent 

 irritation cause the patient to tear the sutures out, which 

 may lead to protrusion of the intestines or other abdominal 

 viscera. If the sutures do not include the deeper layers of 

 the abdominal wall hernia is liable to occur and require a 

 second operation. 



31. OVARIOTOMY IN THE CAT. 



Instruments. Same as for the bitch. 



Technic. The cat may be spayed by either the flank 

 method or through the linea alba. The point of incision in 

 either case is the same as in the bitch but owing to the 

 smaller size of the animal it is necessary to make the wound 

 quite small. The abundance of fur renders it essential 

 that an ample area be shaved and the surrounding hair be 

 saturated with a disinfectant and carefully brushed away 



