What is C-Section (Caesarean Section)?

A C-section (or cesarean section) is a major surgical procedure performed to remove puppies or kittens from the uterus of a dog or cat. It is often necessary in emergency cases where natural birth is not feasible. Let’s explore the details:

Indications:

• • Dystocia: When there are difficulties during labor, such as inadequate cervical dilation, abnormal pelvic bone conformation, or large fetuses.
  • Distressed Dam or Puppies: If the dam is exhausted, distressed, or unable to deliver naturally.
  • Placental Detachments: If delivery is delayed by more than 24 hours after the start of the second stage of labor, C-section becomes critical to prevent loss of all puppies due to placental detachments.

Preparation of the Dam:

• • Maternal Oxygenation: Administer oxygen to the dam for 10 to 15 minutes before anesthesia induction to reduce hypoxia during intubation and anesthesia.
  • Hydration: Establish an IV line for fluid administration to maintain blood pressure and prevent dehydration.
  • Corticosteroid Injection: For elective C-sections, an IV injection of a short-acting corticosteroid (e.g., methylprednisolone) stimulates progesterone decrease, prevents shock, and enhances neonatal surfactant production.

Anesthesia Selection:

• • Safety Considerations: Choose anesthetic drugs that do not cross the placental barrier, are short-acting, and do not rely on liver metabolism or renal excretion (deficient in neonates).
  • Welfare of Dam and Viability of Fetuses: Prioritize the dam’s well-being and the viability of the neonates.

Surgical Procedure:

• • Positioning: Place the dam in dorsal recumbency and clip and scrub the abdomen for surgical entry.
  • Incision: Make an incision in the least vascular area over the uterine body or base of a uterine horn.
  • Vascularity and Care: Be aware of the vascularity of the mammary glands and handle the gravid uterus gently.
  • Quick Delivery: Optimize speed from induction to delivery.
  • Post-Procedure Wakefulness: Allow the dam to wake up as soon as possible to facilitate neonatal/maternal bonding and adoption.

Postoperative Care:

• • Recovery: Most dogs recover quickly from C-sections.
  • Neonatal Care: Attend to the puppies’ needs promptly.
  • Maternal Adoption: Encourage maternal bonding and acceptance of the new role as a mother.

 

Remember that individual cases may vary, and consulting a veterinarian is essential for proper diagnosis and treatment.