Spaying and neutering are important for keeping pets safe and healthy. Not only can it improve their behavior, but it can also help reduce the population of pets in shelters. While spay and neuter surgeries are generally safe and straightforward, you may be nervous about how to care for your pet afterward. Here are some do’s and don’ts to follow after a spay and neuter procedure. 

Do: 

Check the incision twice a day.

Any damage to the incision, including torn sutures or infections, can be dangerous. Check the area twice daily. While some swelling, redness, and slight bruising is standard in the days after the surgery, extreme swelling, redness, or oozing blood or pus is cause for alarm.

If you notice anything out of the ordinary, it’s essential to take them to the vet immediately. When sutures are damaged, bacteria can enter the wound and delay healing, while infections can spread quickly and make your pet extremely ill. 

Limit activity. 

While regular exercise is essential for a pet’s health, in the two weeks after surgery, they’ll need to take it easy. Climbing, jumping, or running can strain the stitches.

Too much movement can cause them to burst, which may delay healing and raise the risk of infection. Chew toys can help keep dogs occupied, and your veterinarian may also recommend medications to keep them calm. 

Don’t: 

Take the Elizabethan collar off.

After a spay or neuter surgery, the veterinarian will give your pet a plastic cone to wear around their neck. Also known as an Elizabethan or E-collar, the cone prevents your pet from licking or chewing the surgical site.

Pets tend not to like these collars and might shake or try to rub it off. While you can take it off temporarily if your animal is having trouble eating or drinking with it on, you must supervise them and put it back on immediately when they’ve finished. Removing it too soon could allow your animal to lick their wound, which can result in infections or opened stitches. 

Be alarmed by drowsiness.

Your pet may behave a bit differently after the surgery. The anesthesia may make them tired for up to a full day afterword. Pain medication can also cause drowsiness. Ask your veterinarian what is healthy, so you can keep an eye out for anything out of the ordinary. 

If you’re a Cincinnati area resident in need of spay and neuter services for your four-legged friend, turn to Alexandria Pike Animal Hospital. Located in Southgate, KY, this local pet hospital provides a range of services including animal vaccines, spay and neutering, and even dental care. Call (859) 781-1800 to speak with a friendly staff member to schedule an appointment or visit the website to learn more about the practice and how they can help your family.