Exploratory laparotomy is routinely performed in small animal practice and is indicated when organ dysfunction or trauma involving the abdominal cavity requires definitive diagnosis along with surgical treatment and prognosis.1 Surgical exploration provides information through inspection, palpation, and/or hollow organ luminal mucosa observation. Samples can be obtained for microbiologic and cytologic examination or biopsy for histopathologic examination. Abdominal exploration should be performed in a timely manner to increase the likelihood of successful diagnosis and management without negatively affecting the patient.