When it comes to your furry family members, understanding their health needs can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially when surgery is involved. At Coastal Creek Animal Hospital, we believe that informed pet parents make the best decisions for their beloved companions. That’s why we want to explain one particular surgical procedure that may be recommended for your pet: a splenectomy.
What is a Splenectomy?
A splenectomy is a surgical procedure that involves the complete removal of the spleen, an organ in the abdomen that filters blood, stores red blood cells, and supports the immune system. While pets-especially dogs-can often live healthy lives without a spleen, they may be at increased risk for infections and require extra precautions. Other organs can compensate for many, but not all, of the spleen’s functions. As with any major surgery, there are risks such as bleeding, infection, and post-operative complications, so careful monitoring and follow-up care are essential.
Why Might Your Pet Need a Splenectomy?
There are several reasons why your veterinarian might recommend a splenectomy (removal of the spleen) for your dog or cat:
Splenic Masses
One of the most common reasons for a splenectomy is the presence of a mass or tumor on the spleen. These masses can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous), and unfortunately, it’s often impossible to determine whether a splenic mass is benign or malignant without surgically removing and examining it.
Common types of splenic masses include:
- Mast cell tumor: Especially common as a splenic tumor in cats
- Hemangioma: A benign tumor of the blood vessels
- Hemangiosarcoma: A malignant tumor that arises from the blood vessels (more common in dogs)
- Hematoma: A collection of blood within the spleen, often due to trauma
- Nodular hyperplasia: An overgrowth of normal splenic tissue
- Lymphoma: A cancer of the lymphatic system that can affect the spleen
Splenic Rupture
The spleen can rupture due to trauma, disease, or the presence of a mass, leading to internal bleeding. This is a life-threatening emergency that requires immediate surgical intervention. Signs of a ruptured spleen may include weakness, pale gums, rapid heart rate, and collapse.
Other Conditions
Less commonly, a splenectomy may be recommended for:
- Immune-mediated diseases where the spleen destroys normal blood cells (medical management is usually tried first)
- Severe infections of the spleen
- Splenic torsion (twisting of the spleen, more common in dogs)
It’s important to note that a splenectomy is a major surgery, and the prognosis depends on the underlying cause. If your pet is diagnosed with a splenic mass or other spleen-related condition, your veterinarian will discuss the best treatment options and what to expect during recovery.
Signs That May Indicate Splenic Problems
It’s important to be aware of potential signs that could indicate splenic problems in your pet:
- Weakness or lethargy
- Pale gums
- Distended abdomen
- Decreased appetite
- Increased thirst and urination
- Collapse (in severe cases)
- Vomiting
Many of these symptoms can be subtle or similar to other conditions, which is why regular veterinary check-ups are essential for early detection.
The Splenectomy Procedure
A splenectomy is performed under general anesthesia. Your veterinarian will make an incision in your pet’s abdomen to access the spleen. The blood vessels supplying the spleen are carefully ligated (tied off) before the organ is removed. In some cases, minimally invasive (laparoscopic) techniques may be considered, but this depends on your pet’s condition and the reason for surgery. In emergencies, such as a ruptured spleen, the procedure can be more complex due to internal bleeding and the need for rapid intervention.
The surgery typically takes between 45 minutes and 2 hours, depending on the specific circumstances and whether other procedures are needed at the same time.
Recovery After Splenectomy
After surgery, your pet will require careful monitoring and recovery time:
- Most pets spend at least one night in the hospital for observation and pain management.
- Pain medication will be provided to keep your pet comfortable.
- Strictly limited activity and keeping your pet indoors is recommended for 10–14 days to allow for proper healing.
- An Elizabethan collar (cone) may be necessary to prevent your pet from licking or chewing at the incision.
- Follow-up appointments are essential to monitor healing, remove sutures if needed, and check for any complications.
- Anesthesia effects may last up to 24–48 hours, so your pet should be kept calm and away from other animals or young children during the early recovery period.
Most pets adapt well to life without a spleen, but it’s important to follow all post-operative care instructions and watch for any signs of infection or complications. The recovery period from surgery itself is usually around 2 weeks, although this can vary depending on your pet’s age, overall health, and the underlying reason for the splenectomy.
Long-term Outlook
The long-term prognosis after a splenectomy largely depends on the underlying reason for the procedure:
- If the splenectomy was performed due to trauma or a benign condition, the prognosis is generally excellent.
- If cancer was present, the prognosis depends on the type of cancer and whether it has spread to other organs. For example, hemangiosarcoma is an aggressive cancer with a guarded prognosis even after surgery.
- Rare complications, such as cardiac arrhythmias or increased risk of infection, may occur and require ongoing monitoring.
It’s essential to follow your veterinarian’s recommendations regarding follow-up care, which may include additional treatments such as chemotherapy if cancer was diagnosed. Your veterinary team will guide you through the recovery process and help ensure the best possible outcome for your pet.
When to Contact Your Veterinarian
After your pet has undergone a splenectomy, contact your veterinarian immediately if you notice:
- Excessive bleeding or discharge from the incision
- Opening of the surgical site
- Signs of pain despite medication
- Refusal to eat or drink for more than 24 hours
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Lethargy or depression
- Pale gums or difficulty breathing
We’re Here to Help
If your pet has been diagnosed with a splenic condition or you have concerns about symptoms they’re experiencing, don’t hesitate to reach out. At Coastal Creek Animal Hospital, we’re committed to providing the highest level of care for your furry family members throughout every stage of their lives.
Remember that while a splenectomy is a significant surgery, most pets go on to live normal, happy lives following the procedure when provided with proper care and follow-up treatment. Your veterinary team is always available to answer questions and guide your pet’s recovery journey.
Related Soft Tissue Surgery Topics
Curious about other advanced procedures we perform beyond splenectomy? Visit our Soft Tissue Surgery Services in Summerville, SC to learn how Dr. Mack and our team handle everything from mass removals to emergency abdominal surgery—safely and compassionately.
Continue learning with our next article: Intestinal Resection and Anastomosis in Pets — a must-read if you’re concerned about unusual growths in your pet’s abdomen.
Common Questions About Splenectomy in Dogs and Cats
How do I know if my pet needs a splenectomy?
Your veterinarian may recommend a splenectomy if your pet has a splenic mass, trauma to the spleen, or, in rare cases, certain blood disorders that have not responded to medical management. Signs that might indicate splenic issues include weakness, an enlarged abdomen, pale gums, or collapse. During a physical examination, your veterinarian may feel an abnormal mass in your pet’s abdomen. Diagnostic tests such as ultrasound and radiography (X-rays) are typically used to confirm splenic abnormalities and assess whether surgical removal of the spleen is necessary. Always consult with your veterinarian if you notice any concerning symptoms in your dog or cat.
What should I expect during my pet’s splenectomy recovery?
After a splenectomy, most pets remain in the animal hospital for at least 24 hours for monitoring. Recovery at home typically takes 10–14 days, during which restricted activity and close supervision are essential to promote proper healing. Your pet will likely be prescribed pain medication and possibly antibiotics. You’ll need to monitor the surgical site daily for any signs of infection or bleeding. Most pets adjust well to life without a spleen, but they may be at slightly increased risk for certain infections, so regular veterinary check-ups are important. Follow-up appointments ensure your pet is healing properly and provide an opportunity to discuss any pathology results if a mass was removed.
Is a splenectomy a risky surgery for my dog or cat?
Like any major surgery, a splenectomy carries some risks. The primary concerns include bleeding during or after surgery (since the spleen is a very vascular organ), infection at the surgical site, anesthesia-related complications, and, in some cases, abnormal heart rhythms (arrhythmias). There is also an increased risk of certain blood-borne infections after spleen removal. However, in the hands of an experienced veterinary surgeon at a well-equipped clinic, these risks are significantly minimized. For many pets with splenic masses or rupture, the benefits of surgery far outweigh the risks, as untreated splenic issues can lead to life-threatening internal bleeding or the spread of cancer to other organs.
Can my pet live a normal life without a spleen?
Most dogs and cats can return to a good quality of life after spleen removal. While the spleen is important for filtering blood and supporting immune function, other organs help compensate for its absence. However, pets without a spleen are at increased risk for certain infections, so regular veterinary care and prompt attention to any signs of illness are important. Some veterinarians recommend periodic check-ups to monitor immune system function, especially in older pets. With appropriate care, most animals return to their usual activity levels and enjoy a good quality of life within a few weeks after surgery.
How much does a splenectomy cost for dogs and cats?
The cost of a splenectomy varies widely based on several factors, including the complexity of the procedure, the reason for spleen removal, pre-surgical diagnostics, and post-operative care. In the Summerville, SC area, a typical splenectomy may range from $1,500 to $9,000 or more, especially if emergency surgery or additional treatments (such as cancer therapy) are needed. This usually includes pre-surgical blood work, anesthesia, the surgery itself, pain management, and overnight monitoring. Many animal hospitals offer payment plans or accept pet insurance to help manage these expenses. It’s best to discuss specific pricing with your veterinary clinic during your consultation.
What causes splenic masses in dogs and cats?
Splenic masses can develop for a variety of reasons. In dogs, especially certain breeds like German Shepherds and Golden Retrievers, hemangiosarcoma (a malignant tumor of blood vessel cells) is unfortunately common. Other types of masses include hemangiomas (benign blood vessel tumors), hematomas (blood-filled cysts often caused by trauma), lymphoma, and nodular hyperplasia (an overgrowth of normal splenic tissue). The exact cause of these growths isn’t always clear, but age, genetics, and environmental factors may play a role. In cats, splenic masses are less common but can include similar types, as well as mast cell tumors. Early detection through regular veterinary exams and preventive care is important, as some masses can grow large enough to rupture, causing serious internal bleeding.
What diagnostic tests are needed before a splenectomy?
Before performing a splenectomy, your veterinarian will typically recommend several diagnostic tests to assess your pet’s overall health and evaluate the splenic issue. These often include:
- Complete blood count to check for anemia or other blood cell abnormalities
- Chemistry panel to evaluate organ function
- Urinalysis to assess the urinary system
- Coagulation profile to ensure normal blood clotting
- Abdominal ultrasound to visualize the spleen and surrounding organs
- Radiography (X-rays) to check for masses or fluid in the abdomen
- Possible fine needle aspirate or biopsy in some cases
These tests help your veterinary team determine if your pet is a good candidate for surgery and allow for proper surgical planning. They also serve as a baseline for post-operative monitoring of your pet’s recovery and response to treatment.
