Post Neuter and Spay Care for Cats & Dogs
The first two weeks following having your pet neutered or spayed can be very stressful! The pet will be on different medications, and you’ll have to restrict exercise to ensure the healing of a cut. In this post, I will provide a complete description of what you can anticipate, the potential risks, and ways to assist your pet in healing quickly.
Pain Control
The first 24 to 72 hours following surgery can be the toughest. Your pet can be restless and be a bit hesitant to move. It is essential to administer the medicines your vet has prescribed. Controlling pain, it is a crucial aspect of healing. Although natural remedies like CBD can reduce inflammation, they’re not enough to alleviate pain alone. It’s critical to recognize that your pet is feeling discomfort even though they cannot show it.
Tips for pet owners: Feed your pet four small meals during the first few days following surgery. New medications and anesthesia can trigger stomach upsets.
Exercise Restriction
This is the most challenging aspect for you as a pet owner, but it is also an aspect that is crucial! The majority of pets and animals begin feeling better within 72 hours. However, their wounds remain untreated. In the case of spays, this cut runs directly into the abdomen. If the sutures do not work, the result could be disastrous. Be sure to follow the doctor’s instructions regarding exercising during the healing process and then fill them in when you feel it is necessary.
Postoperative Tips for Dogs
I suggest avoiding running, stairs, or jumping for the first 7-10 days following surgery. Within ten days, you can slowly climb stairs and take five to ten minutes of daily walks. For active dogs, the restriction could be very challenging. If you’re worried you are worried, consult your veterinarian about tranquilizing medications to help your dog remain at peace.
Tips for owners: Use food puzzles and frozen Kongs to amuse your dog while they recover!
Postoperative Tips for Cats
Cat neuters are a simple procedure that provides the fastest recovery. Keep your cat inside for a week following surgery. Cats who have had their spays typically limit their activities. A majority of cats don’t need the use of an Elizabethan collar (cone) to prevent them from licking their spay-incision. If you notice your cat is chewing or licking the incision, it is possible to use the Elizabethan collar or a newborn onesie to shield the incision. If you’re using a onesie, take photographs, as this could become the final time you’ll have this chance! (P.S. We’d love to have you tag our account in your photos on Instagram when you receive onesie photos!)
A tip for you: Cats are amazing! They usually tend to themselves and make wise choices. But treating your cat can be challenging. Learn a few tricks for treating the cat right here.
Potential Postoperative Complications
There is a tendency for dogs to experience more postoperative complications than cats. Spays can cause more problems than neuters. The majority of the issues stem from the fact that your pet is overly active after surgery. Sutures may fail due to the pressure of the activities and cause the wound to open. Sutures that heal can be itchy after seven days. Using an Elizabethan collar (cone) is essential until the sutures have disintegrated or been removed. Another option to replace the e-collar is an afghan tied in the back of female pets or boxer shorts for males. It’s crucial to ensure that when you’re unable to keep your pet safe, they’re not able to chew or lick at the surgery site. If your pet chews and licks on the site of surgery, the area can get infected or open. If you are unsure, it is possible to take a photo of the area incision to your vet if you are worried.
We thank you so much for being a fantastic pet owner! Your pet is blessed to have you as a loving parent. If you have questions, you’d like to ask, comment below.