Our Vets are Available 🟢
The logo for Dial A Vet, the online vet company.
Pet Health
Blogs
Dog HealthCat HealthVeterinary ServicesPet Health
ask a vet
Ask A Vet Q&A - Free!
resources
Free Symptom CheckerDial A Vet NZFind a Local Vet Clinic
about DIAL A VET
Terms & Conditions
Privacy PolicyEditorial Guidelines
View all Blogs
Over 6,000 Articles
View All Q&A
5,000+ Answers
Resources
Lorem ipsum dolor
PricingHow it WorksContact
Chat to a Vet

Question:

Are IV-Fluids And Pre-Anesthetic Bloodwork Required For Neutering?

I'm really anxious and need some advice. My sweet little Max, a two-year-old tabby cat, is scheduled to get neutered next week, and I'm freaking out after talking to the vet. They suggested doing pre-anesthetic bloodwork and giving him IV fluids during the procedure. Honestly, I'm hesitant because it's adding to the cost, and I'm not sure if it's totally necessary. I want to do what's best for Max but also don't want to be upsold on unnecessary treatments. Has anyone else gone through this? Is it really important for their health and safety, or is it more of a precautionary extra? I'd love to hear your experiences, especially if you have any tips for easing his post-surgery recovery too. I want to make sure my little buddy is as safe and comfortable as possible!

Answer:

Hello there! It's great that you're thinking ahead about your pet's neutering procedure. Both IV fluids and pre-anesthetic bloodwork are often recommended for surgeries like neutering, and here's why.

IV fluids help maintain blood pressure, keep your pet hydrated, and ensure the safe administration of anesthesia. They also help your pet recover faster from the anesthesia. Pre-anesthetic bloodwork checks your pet's liver and kidney function and looks for any hidden health issues. This ensures your pet is healthy enough to undergo anesthesia and helps prevent potential complications.

While these may not be strictly "required," they are highly advised for a safer surgery and smoother recovery. Some veterinary practices consider these as standard procedures, especially for pets that are older, have existing health problems, or are of certain breeds with known health risks.

At home, ensure your pet is healthy before the surgery—keep them well-nourished, up-to-date on vaccinations, and watch for any signs of illness, like coughing or marked lethargy.

Please be mindful of warning signs post-surgery, such as lethargy, vomiting, or any swelling around the incision area, which can indicate complications.

I recommend booking a video consult with Dial A Vet to discuss your pet's specific needs and get tailored advice from a veterinarian who knows your pet's health history.

Answered by

Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet

June 18, 2025

  Book A Vet Consultation
The "Ask a Vet" forum on Dial A Vet offers general information and helpful tips on pet health, but it's not a substitute for professional veterinary care. The advice here doesn't create a veterinarian-client-patient relationship, and our vets can't diagnose or treat your pet remotely. For emergencies or specific medical concerns, always contact your local veterinarian immediately. Your pet's health is unique, and decisions should only be made after consulting with a qualified professional. By using this forum, you acknowledge these limitations and agree to seek in-person veterinary advice for all your pet's health needs. View our content guidelines.
🧠 Related Pet Owner Questions
My French Bulldog had a c section and she was fine afterwards, but all 3 of her puppies died within 2 hours due to breathing problems.
Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
My recently spayed kitten threw up
Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Vagal response in cat after throwing up, or something else?
Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I think my foster kitten has FIP and don't know if he can wait until morning
Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Money Magazine
Australia's Leading
Online Vet
TrustPilot:
Excellent
Real Vets

Thousands of Pet Owners across the Globe rely on Dial A Vet for peace of mind.

Real questions, vet reviewed answers and quality care.

Trusted by 40,000+ users
4.7/5
dog in grass
Ina
Pet Owner

It was so easy, I needed some eye drops for my dog and thinking about going to the vet on a weekend made me nervous about the cost involved. Dial A Vet was a much simpler, cheaper option with faster results. Within 10 minutes of the call, I had the medicine I needed for my dog without an expensive consultation.

25 May 2025
Joanne
Pet Owner

A great fast efficient service with a qualified vet who was lovely and helpful. Thank you Samantha. I was able to sort my dog at 6pm on a Sunday night for $49 - amazing. Highly recommend.

12 May 2025
Lisa
Pet Owner

What an amazing service, at my wits end as I knew my beautiful dog had an ear infection, could not get into the vet for 4 days. Never knew there was vets online until I googled. Within 15 minutes on a Sunday I was taking to beautiful Samantha who diagnosed and treated our Jasper. Only $49. She trusted that we knew our boy and gave us lots of advice. I will definitely be using dial a vet every time and sharing with all my friends and family. Absolutely fantastic kind caring service. 11/10

7 April 2025
The logo for Dial A Vet, the online vet company.

With Dial A Vet, expert veterinary advice is just a tap away. Get fast vet consultations, trusted care, and personalized pet support—anytime, anywhere, all year round.

Dial A Vets uses software that is HIPAA compliant and SOC - 2 Certified.

support@dialavet.com.au

dial a vet owner with cat
dial a vet pet owner with dog in a orange top
colourful pet owner with their dog
40k+
Pet Owners
Fluffy stuff
Terms & ConditionsPrivacy policy
Company
How It WorksPricingBlogFree Online VetOnline VetPet Symptom CheckerFind a Local Vet ClinicFree Teachers lesson plansGasTexts: Free Gas Prices TextedCheersVC
NEW ZEALAND
Speak to A Vet NZ
Our Social Links