Although regarded as a routine operation, neutering is probably the most invasive procedure undertaken in the majority of pets in the UK. Anaesthesia should be tailored to each patient to ensure not only anaesthesia adequate depth for the operation, but also to ensure preservation of normal physiology as well as excellent analgesia. This session explores the possible approaches that could be applied in practice. It examines the importance of a thorough clinical examination, benefits of tailored premedication, and outlines best practice in anaesthetic induction, maintenance and recovery. Finally, examples are given of how the approach could be modified when dealing with commonly encountered breed specific and clinical problems.