Many owners are concerned about their pet’s wellbeing after an anaesthesia or surgery and we want to make sure the experience is positive, stree – free and that you know how to look after your pet at home.
- When you get home
- Your pet may be drowsy, grumpy or reactive to noise , bright lights , quick movemements etc. Keep them in a quiet, dark warm place. Keep them separated from other pets and children till they seem back to their normal self.
- Reintroduce food slowly, offer a small amount of food and water as soon as your pet is fully awake and they do not appear nauseous. Signs of nausea can include drooling, lip licking and disinterest in smells of food.
- Check your pet’s incision so that you know what it looks like, that way you will be able to see how it is improving over the coming days or notice any problems.
- Important things
- Do not allow your pet to lick the incision area. If your pet is going to lick or begins to lick , they need to be fitted with an E-collar (cone) for the next 7-10 days after surgery. This avoids pet’s from pulling their stitches out or causing an infection from excessive licking.
- No running, jumping, climbing or playing in or outside the house for the next 1-2 weeks. This will of course vary depending on the type of surgery your pet has had. Please check with your vet if you are not sure.
- No swimming, bathing or grooming until stitches are out.
- Check incision daily for any excessive swelling, bleeding, redness or discharge.
- Don’t forget to arrange a revisit with your vet. We like to see our patients 3-5 days after any procedure or surgery to make sure you and your pet are travelling ok.
- Please check medication labels when administering medications for instructions and side effects listed.
- Potential complications
- Neutering procedures are very safe surgeries, however just like any anaesthesia or surgery, complications can occur. Please contact your vet immediately if you notice any symptoms below:
– Vomiting, Diarrhoea.
– Lethargy that has lasted more than 24-48 hours.
– Reduce or no appetite.
– Signs of pain such as excessive whimpering, biting or reluctance to be touched or moved.
– Abnormal or any discharge from the surgical area.
– Changes in breathing or laboured effort.
The above information applies to most surgical and anaesthetic procedures that your pet will have at your local vet or here at Animal Medical Centre, we are always happy to recieve a call or email if you have any questions and concerns! 🙂
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