Whether your pet has undergone a routine procedure or a more serious operation, proper post-surgical care is essential for a smooth recovery. The support you provide during this critical time greatly affects their healing process, comfort, and long-term health.

Below are key guidelines for caring for your pet after surgery. Please note, this is a general guide — always follow any specific instructions provided by your veterinary professional.

Follow The Discharge Instructions Carefully

The first step in good post-surgery care is adhering to any specific instructions given to you by your veterinary professional, such as exercise, confinement, feeding etc. Be sure to ask questions if you are unsure of something, as understanding the care plan is crucial. Any medication should be given on time, following the instruction that are on the label of the packet. For instance, twice daily medication should be given as close to 12 hours apart as possible. If needed, set alarms or use a medication chart to remind you of the next dose. If your pet seems in pain or discomfort, contact us for more advice. Do not stop any medication early, even if they seem to have recovered. This is particularly important with antibiotics to ensure they have completely cleared the infection in order to prevent re-infection.

Monitor The Surgical Site

If your pet has a surgical wound, the surrounding hair will have been clipped. This will grow back in time. Inspect the surgical site daily to ensure it’s healing properly. Look for signs of infection such as redness, swelling, or discharge. A little discharge is normal, but if it becomes thick, foul-smelling, or excessive, that could be a concern. The wound should also be kept clean and dry. To prevent your pet licking the surgical site, they can be provided with a buster collar or bodysuit. If they can get to the wound, there is a risk that they will remove stitches or open the wound. Internal stitches should dissolve, but there may be some that need to be removed at an appointment at a later date. If the site has been bandaged, this will again need to be kept clean and dry. Bandages over feet will need to be temporarily covered with a waterproof cover when your pet is taken outside to toilet and then removed when back inside. A plastic bag or similar can be used.

Encourage Rest

Most pets need to rest post-surgery. Take them straight home once you have collected them after their procedure and let them relax in a quiet room. Running, jumping, or playing can cause strain on the surgical site and delay healing. Depending on the procedure, you may be required to limit walks or confine your pet to a crate or small space to prevent movement. Try to block anything they may try to jump onto, such as sofas or beds.

Encourage Proper Nutrition and Hydration

Eating and drinking after surgery can be a challenge for some pets, especially if they are feeling groggy or nauseous from anesthesia. Provide your pet with small, easily digestible meals and ensure they have access to fresh water. Avoid rich and fatty foods. If your pet vomits, contact your vet for advice.

Watch for Side Effects from Anesthesia

After surgery, it’s normal for pets to be a bit sleepy. However, if they are extremely tired or unable to stand or have low energy for 48 hours, get in touch. Some pets can have a slight cough from the endotracheal tube (windpipe) used to help them breathe during the operation. If it lasts more than 24 hours, contact your vet. Other side effects that may require a recheck include vomiting, diarrhoea, refusing to eat, signs of pain, or problems toileting.

Keep Follow-Up Appointments

Most surgical procedures require at least one follow-up visit. It is important to attend these appointments to ensure everything is healing as expected. This visit may include the removal of stitches or sutures, a check-up of the surgical site, or X-rays to monitor healing.

Provide Support

Pets can be stressed or anxious after surgery. Spend quality time with your pet, offering affection and reassurance and make sure they are comfortable with familiar bedding and surrounding. For pets requiring long periods of confinement, boredom breaker toys such as fillable KONGS and LickiMats can be useful to keep them busy and calm. Other pets may react to the different smell that your pet has after surgery – this should pass within a few days.

Providing the right care after surgery can make all the difference in your pet’s recovery. With attentive monitoring, consistent medication, and lots of love, you’ll help them heal smoothly and comfortably.