Cleo has has just been spayed (friday), and although she was in great condition before the op, i am concerned about her gaining excess weight. As it is she already looks as though she is preganant (!) though i am assuming this is due to the operaion itself, and no tensed muscles in her belly.
My question is is how much should i reduce her feed now that she has been spayed? And should i put her onto a lower protein/calorie diet rather than reduce the food intake that she was getting before?
Any advice greatly appreciated...

Hi Alex,
I'd reduce her food intake during her convalesce (sp?). No exercise means easy weight gain. Her muscles will be poochy until she heals up. Then she'll probably look as she usually does. As for feeding her, well, don't worry about it unless you notice her putting on weight.

Just between my mother & I, we've had over 12 spayed bitches of various breeds during the last 20 or so years. Recently, I've known other friends who had some too. None ever gained weight just because they were spayed. It usually comes with inactivity..... not enough exercise + more food than they need. Sometimes their metabolism slowed, but that was usually age or breed related. Samma had a very slow metabolism before & after her spay. That dog puts on weight just looking at food :D

Hopes this eases your fears :D
toodles

Hi Alex.
I think it's fair to say spayed bitches and neutered dogs tend to put on weight more easily than others. I would reduce her food slightly or feed her a lower calorie food, substitute, biscuits for veggies or if you feed dry food use a light variety. Hope she goes on well.
Dawn.