Splenectomy Procedure and Care

ImmunityQ&AMeongsiljang Veterinary Advisory Board

This guide explains the surgical procedure, recovery period, and home care methods for pet spleen removal (splenectomy), based on veterinary evidence. We’ve also summarized important precautions before and after surgery, as well as long-term care tips, all in one place.

What is Splenectomy?

An anatomical illustration showing the location of the spleen within a dog's abdomen.

Splenectomy is a surgical procedure that completely removes the spleen, located on the left side of the abdomen. The most important aspect is understanding why removal is necessary. This surgery is performed when there is suspicion of massive bleeding or malignant changes due to conditions such as splenic tumors, traumatic rupture, or severe torsion (twisting). As an abdominal surgery conducted under general anesthesia, it results in the loss of the spleen’s immune and blood storage functions, making long-term immune management crucial after the procedure.

When is Splenectomy Performed?

According to veterinary internal medicine textbooks, there are four main situations where a splenectomy is necessary. First, when a splenic tumor (such as hemangiosarcoma) is detected. Second, when the spleen is ruptured due to a traffic accident or fall, causing internal bleeding in the abdominal cavity. Third, when the spleen twists on itself, a condition known as splenic torsion. Fourth, when there is a blood disorder that does not respond to medical treatment, such as immune-mediated thrombocytopenia. In each case, the veterinarian will determine whether surgery is necessary based on diagnostic imaging and blood test results.

Comparison by Surgical Type

Item	Partial Resection	Total Resection	Emergency Laparotomy
Target Condition	Localized benign lesions	Tumors, complete torsion	Traumatic rupture
Surgery Time	1–2 hours	1.5–2.5 hours	2–3 hours
Hospitalization Period	2–3 days	3–5 days	5–7 days
Immune Function Preservation	True	False	False
Reoperation Risk	Low	Almost none	Moderate

Actual application is judged by the veterinarian based on imaging and blood test results.

Overview of the Surgical Procedure

Pre-anesthetic testing: Blood tests, thoracic and abdominal imaging, and an echocardiogram are performed to check for metastasis and assess cardiac status.

General anesthesia: Anesthesia is induced based on body weight, followed by endotracheal intubation.

Laparotomy: A midline incision is made in the abdomen to access the abdominal cavity.

Vascular ligation: Blood vessels leading to the spleen are ligated one by one to control bleeding.

Splenectomy: The entire spleen or only the affected portion is removed.

Abdominal lavage and closure: After confirming hemostasis, the fascia and skin are sutured in sequence.

The entire surgery typically takes about 1.5 to 3 hours.

Illustration of a veterinary operating room prepared for surgery

Essential Pre-Surgery Checks

Fasting from food for 12 hours and water for 4 hours before surgery is standard. Be sure to inform your veterinarian about any medications your pet is taking, especially steroids or anticoagulants. If a tumor is suspected, a chest CT scan or abdominal ultrasound should be performed first to check for metastasis, which is essential for accurately predicting the prognosis. Senior dogs and those with heart disease must undergo an anesthesia risk assessment (ASA grading).

Home Care for the First Week After Discharge

The first seven days after discharge are crucial for recovery.

Incision site: Check twice daily for swelling, discharge, or wound separation.

Activity restriction: No stairs, jumping, or running; limit walks to bathroom breaks only.

Elizabethan collar: Wear 24/7 until sutures are removed (the veterinarian will determine removal timing based on wound healing).

Diet: Feed small, frequent meals of prescription food; provide free access to water.

Medications: Follow the prescribed schedule for antibiotics and pain relievers.

Contact the clinic if your pet appears to be in severe pain or has no appetite for more than 48 hours.

A puppy recovering at home while wearing a neck collar

Go to the Vet Immediately If You See These Symptoms

If you notice bright red blood oozing from the surgical site or a distended, bloated abdomen, there may be internal bleeding. Pale or grayish gums, sudden lethargy with rapid breathing, and repeated vomiting are also emergency warning signs. If your pet suddenly loses its appetite and develops a persistent fever between three and five days after surgery, suspect infection or complications. Since normal body temperature varies by individual, know your pet’s baseline temperature and contact your veterinarian immediately if anything seems off. Don’t hesitate—call the clinic right away.

Is It Okay Without a Spleen? Long-Term Management

The spleen stores blood and helps maintain circulating blood volume. Although other lymphatic organs can partially compensate after splenectomy, the spleen’s role cannot be fully replaced, so ongoing health management is essential. Surgical textbooks report that dogs with a history of splenectomy have a higher risk of developing gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV) than those without, with cases often emerging around 2–3 months post-surgery. Therefore, it’s important to regularly monitor for signs such as abdominal distension or unproductive retching after meals.

Vaccinations: Strictly maintain annual core vaccine schedules

Oral care: Prevent bacteremia caused by periodontal disease

Tick prevention: Block vectors that transmit red blood cell infections

Regular check-ups: Conduct blood tests every six months to monitor for anemia and overall health status

A healthy puppy that is receiving regular check-ups

Diet and Exercise Return Schedule

Days 1–7: Feed small, frequent meals of a prescribed diet (low-fat, easily digestible food) and keep your pet resting indoors. Days 8–14: Gradually transition back to regular food and allow short indoor walks of 5–10 minutes. Days 15–21: After suture removal, gradually increase walks on flat ground to 15–20 minutes. Weeks 3–4: Resume normal walking routines, but restrict jumping and vigorous play. After 4 weeks: Return to normal activity levels following veterinary clearance. Weight management is crucial during recovery, so please avoid overfeeding treats.

Reviewed by a veterinarian

Dr. Tony — Punnawat Phongkittirak

Veterinarian

A veterinarian who majored in veterinary medicine at Khon Kaen University, Thailand, and completed the IVSA program at North Carolina State University in the United States. Drawing on clinical experience at animal hospitals, he works in the pet healthcare field and is dedicated to building a digital care environment that connects pet parents with veterinarians.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does life expectancy decrease after a splenectomy?

If the spleen was removed due to a benign condition, it typically has little impact on your pet’s life expectancy. However, if the cause was a malignant tumor (such as hemangiosarcoma), the prognosis depends on the tumor itself, and you should discuss a chemotherapy plan with your veterinarian.

How much does the surgery cost?

Costs can vary significantly depending on the clinic, location, and your pet’s condition, so it’s difficult to provide an exact figure upfront. Since the total includes anesthesia, diagnostics, hospitalization, and medications, be sure to request a detailed estimate before surgery to review each line item.

Do cats undergo the same surgical procedure?

The basic procedure is largely the same, but cats may require postoperative chemotherapy or immunosuppressive therapy depending on the type of tumor and any underlying conditions. Since the types of anesthetic drugs used and the methods for monitoring recovery can differ from those for dogs, be sure to consult with your veterinarian.

When should the sutures be removed?

The timing for suture removal is determined by your veterinarian based on the wound’s healing progress. Sutures are removed once the wound has healed well, with no signs of inflammation or exudate. If any abnormalities are observed, the removal schedule may be delayed. Until the sutures are removed, it is essential to keep your pet wearing an Elizabethan collar and to keep the incision site dry.

Will my pet’s vaccination schedule change after surgery?

After a splenectomy, your pet becomes more susceptible to infections, so it’s important to strictly adhere to the regular vaccination schedule. Once the post-surgical recovery period is over, consult your veterinarian to create a customized vaccination plan.