1-15 Lexington Rd, Underwood, QLD, AU, 4119

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1300 228 377
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Surgery (Including Keyhole)

Vet monitoring a cat after surgery

Surgical procedures & common conditions

The experienced surgeons at Veterinary Specialist Services provide the surgical care for cats at CSS.

VSS surgeons have extensive knowledge across various surgical fields and work as part of a multidisciplinary team of veterinarians, nurses and support staff to ensure the best care and outcomes for your cat.

We are the only hospital where specialists in feline medicine, surgery, cardiology and anaesthesia collaborate to deliver the highest standard of care.

Some common conditions that may be managed with surgical input include:

  • Management of cats with complex medical issues requiring surgery, such as heart disease or diabetes
  • Lameness assessment to determine the cause of limping
  • Surgical and non-surgical management of conditions, including joint problems, spinal and neurological disease, bone fractures, abdominal surgery (e.g. foreign body removal, intestinal biopsies, cancer removal, adrenal tumour removal), urinary tract surgery (e.g. subcutaneous ureteral bypass for ureteral obstructions), thoracic and cardiac surgery (e.g. thymoma removal), head and neck surgery and skin and reconstructive surgery
A cat that underwent surgery

What happens when my cat comes in for surgery?

On the morning of the procedure, your cat will need to be fasted, though water does not need to be restricted.

Please bring all medications, and if your cat may stay in the hospital, bringing familiar food from home is helpful. You’re welcome to also bring a familiar item for comfort, but avoid irreplaceable items as they can occasionally be misplaced.

At reception, you’ll sign a consent form, and we’ll confirm contact details. The surgeon or clinician will discuss the procedure with you and provide an estimated timeline. In case of emergencies, the schedule may change, and we’ll notify you by SMS when the procedure begins.

Afterwards, the surgeon will update you as soon as possible. Our surgical suites are purpose-built, adhering to the highest standards of sterility. Anaesthesia is carefully managed with thorough planning, monitoring and aftercare to minimise risks. Our highly trained staff, including specialist anaesthetists for high-risk cases, is here to ensure the best care.

Most patients remain hospitalised for 24-48 hours post-surgery for pain management. Your cat will stay in our cat-only ward or the Pet Intensive Care Unit (PICU), and you’ll receive daily updates. Visits are welcome—just book a time so we can adjust treatment schedules.
When your cat is ready to go home, we’ll contact you to arrange a pick-up time and provide discharge instructions.

Cat keyhole surgery (laparoscopic and thoracoscopic)

Keyhole Surgery

Keyhole surgery (laparoscopic and thoracoscopic) involves small incisions to insert a camera and instruments into the abdomen or thorax for diagnostic or treatment purposes. This minimally invasive technique allows for quicker, less painful recovery compared to open surgery and can improve diagnostic accuracy.

Biopsies of organs like the liver, pancreas, kidneys, lungs and lymph nodes are the most common reasons for keyhole surgery in cats, and some tumours can be removed this way. While most cats are good candidates, certain conditions may require traditional surgery, which will be discussed during your consultation. We are the only feline referral hospital offering laparoscopic and thoracoscopic (keyhole) techniques.

Patient Stories

Our commitment to feline health is best seen in the stories of the cats we’ve had the privilege of treating. These journeys highlight the dedication, expertise and compassion that drive us.

Each patient faced unique challenges, and it was our honour to offer high-quality care and help them regain strength and happiness. We value the deep bonds with cats and their owners, knowing the difference we make in their lives.

See All Stories

Tango Triumphs Over FIP

At 5 months old, Tango was diagnosed with Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP). Once considered a fatal disease, the introduction of new treatments has significantly boosted the survival rate.

Toffee Survives Tick Paralysis

Toffee faced a frightening battle with tick paralysis and aspiration pneumonia, she was rushed to AES when her owners noticed her vomiting, breathing difficulties and trouble walking.

JJ & the Lily – a close call

Mischievous JJ had a close call when he ingested part of a lily—an extremely toxic plant for cats. Thanks to the quick actions of his owner, Sophie, a VSS vet nurse, JJ made a full recovery.

Han’s Hip Fracture Surgery

Han presented after limping on his hind leg for two weeks following an accident at home. An X-ray revealed a fractured growth plate in his hip, requiring surgery to repair the injury.

Coco and Kidney Troubles

Coco stayed with us at CSS while recovering from a nephrectomy (the surgical kidney removal). After months of unsuccessful treatment for a ureteral obstruction, this became necessary.

 

Contacting Us

Pet Owners
If you would like to talk about treatment for your cat, call us on 1300 228 377 or fill in the form.
In an emergency, please contact your local vet.

Vets and Nurses
To refer a patient or book a telehealth consultation please call us on 1300 228 377, book through the portal or fill in the form. For advice calls, please see the guidelines here.

1300 228 377
1-15 Lexington Rd,
Underwood, QLD, AU, 4119
Monday-Friday: 8 am-6 pm
Saturday/Sunday - Closed

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