Splenectomy in Dogs & Cats

The spleen is an organ that sits near the stomach on the left side of the abdomen. It helps filter the blood, stores red blood cells, and plays a role in the immune system. Although it performs useful functions, it is not an essential organ — dogs and cats can live healthy, happy lives after it is removed.

Splenectomy, or surgical removal of the spleen, is recommended for a variety of reasons. Some conditions are emergencies, while others are planned after further testing. In nearly every case, the goals are the same: to stop bleeding or disease, relieve symptoms, and obtain a diagnosis so the best long-term plan can be made.

The spleen is a soft, dark-red organ tucked alongside the stomach. It is part of the lymphatic system and has several jobs:

• Filtering old or damaged red blood cells from circulation
• Storing red blood cells that can be released during times of need
• Helping the immune system respond to certain infections
• Producing some types of blood cells early in life

Despite these roles, the spleen is not required for survival. When it is removed, the liver, bone marrow, and lymph nodes take over most of its work. This is why splenectomy is a well-tolerated procedure in both dogs and cats.

There are several reasons a veterinarian may recommend removing the spleen. Some are urgent, and others are elective after diagnostic testing. Common indications include:

It is important not to assume that every splenic mass is cancerous. Many are benign, and the only way to know for sure is to examine the tissue under a microscope after surgery.

Splenic disease does not always cause obvious symptoms. Some pets show only vague signs, while others become critically ill if the spleen bleeds or twists. Warning signs to watch for include:

Large-breed dogs, especially older dogs, are more likely to develop splenic masses. However, splenic problems can occur in any dog or cat and at any age.

Diagnosis usually begins with a physical exam and is confirmed with imaging. Because the spleen is located inside the abdomen, it cannot be felt directly unless it is enlarged.

In an emergency, there may not be time for extensive testing. If your pet is unstable, your veterinary team will focus on stabilizing them with fluids and oxygen while preparing for surgery.

Splenectomy is performed under general anesthesia through an incision along the midline of the abdomen. The surgeon identifies the splenic blood vessels, ties them off, and removes the spleen.

The removed spleen is typically sent to a veterinary pathologist for analysis. This step is important because it tells us whether the underlying condition is benign or malignant, which guides any further treatment or monitoring.

Most pets recover well from splenectomy, especially when the underlying condition is caught early. Recovery time depends on whether the surgery was elective or an emergency, and on your pet's overall health.

Many pets begin to feel more comfortable within a few days and are back to normal activity within a few weeks. Your veterinarian will give you specific instructions based on your pet's procedure and condition.