Spaying and neutering is a common step to take shortly after welcoming a pet into your home. These procedures not only improve their behavior but also reduce the potential for disease. However, the recovery process can take up to 14 days to complete. Follow these do’s and don’ts to help your furry friend regain their health.

Do:

Check the incision twice a day.

Closely monitor your pet’s incision after spaying or neutering to check for issues. Start by easing them over onto their back and gently rubbing their stomach to keep them calm. A small amount of bruising or redness around the wound is normal, though any significant changes in appearance call for a visit to the vet.  

Restrict your pet’s movements.

Too much movement may break the stitches holding the incision together, so prevent your pet from climbing upstairs or jumping on furniture. You can still take them out for short walks to use the bathroom. If they’re having a hard time keeping still, put them in a crate or isolate them in a bedroom.

Don’t:

Give them a bath.

Soaking in a tub of water may introduce bacteria to the wound. Even gently wiping your pet with a wet rag increases the risk of infection. It’s best to wait until after the wound has healed to bathe them.

If they accidentally relieved themselves during the car ride home from the vet, use a pet-safe, waterless shampoo to freshen them up while avoiding the surgery site as much as possible.

Let them lick the wound.

Allowing your pet to lick or bite at the surgical site may result in infection or torn stitches. That’s why many veterinarians recommend having pets wear cones. The material fits snugly around their neck and creates a breathable barrier around their face while making it impossible to disturb the incision site.

If your pet needs spaying or neutering, reach out to Mililani Town Center Pet Clinic. These professionals have been in the business for over 29 years and provide quality veterinary services, including routine exams and vaccinations. They accept most pet insurances for their customers’ convenience. Learn more about their pet care options by visiting their website, or call (808) 625-6744 to set up an appointment in Mililani.