What To Expect After Spaying
A spay surgery will prevent your female animal from getting pregnant. While it’s a major surgery, your pet will only be affected for a few days and afterwards will receive many health benefits as a result of the procedure. Our veterinarian in Tucson can help you learn what to expect after the procedure.
After Spay Surgery
Sometimes, a pet who is spayed can return home the same day. Other times, she may need to spend the night under veterinary supervision. Pain medication can be given to your pet if she needs it, but most don’t. Your pet may be nauseous following the procedure and not want to eat for a day or two. This is normal, and it’s important to not force any meals during this time. Some animals may cough after surgery due to irritation caused by the anesthesia tube. This isn’t a concern unless it lasts for more than a couple of days.
Checking the Incision and Stitches
You may need to have your pet’s stitches removed after seven to ten days, depending on which stitch material was used. Your vet can give you some information on how to check the incision and when to come back in. Some stitches fall out on their own after surgery. If your pet keeps licking the stitches then you will need to use an Elizabethan collar to prevent her from doing so. While your dog may want to play when she starts feeling better, you will need to restrict her physical activity until her recovery is complete. Too much movement can cause excessive swelling or fluid to accumulate near the incision.
Things to Look Out for
Redness, swelling, and seepage around the incision are tell-tale signs of infection to look out for. If you see any other symptoms that concern you, don’t hesitate to contact our veterinarian. You may notice that after surgery your pet isn’t her usual self. After the procedure, it’s normal for animals to have low energy and feel lethargic. The procedure can make dogs calmer, but many dogs will bounce right back to usual personalities after recovery.
Visiting Your Veterinarian
If your pet needs to be spayed in Tucson, contact us at Twin Peaks Veterinary Center.