Post-Surgery Care Instructions for Your Pet

Post-Anesthesia Effects

• Lethargy: Your pet may seem more tired than usual. This is a normal effect of anesthesia and should subside within 24 hours.
• Coughing: A mild cough for 1–2 days is common due to the use of an endotracheal tube during surgery.
• Bowel Movements: It’s normal for defecation to be delayed for a few days because of fasting and the anesthetics.
• Increased Urination: Your pet may urinate more frequently on the first day due to IV fluids administered during surgery.

Feeding Instructions

• Some pets may experience carsickness on the way home.
• Once home, keep your pet in a warm, dry place and offer a small meal (up to half their usual portion).
• Regular feeding can resume the following day.
• A decreased appetite is normal for the first day. If your pet isn’t eating or drinking within 24 hours, contact us.
• Ensure fresh water is always available.

Activity Restrictions

• Activity should be limited after surgery, depending on your veterinarian’s specific instructions. Restrictions may include avoiding running, jumping, climbing, swimming, and stairs.
• Follow your veterinarian’s guidance on the duration of restricted activity.

Caring for the Incision

• Keep the incision clean and dry to prevent infection. If it becomes dirty, gently clean it with sterile saline solution—otherwise, leave it untouched. Avoid applying topical medications unless instructed.
• Monitor the incision daily for 10–14 days for signs of swelling, redness, discharge, pus, heat, foul odor, or loose sutures/staples.
• Minor bloody discharge on the first day is normal. However, contact us immediately if there is significant bleeding.

E-Collar Use

• Use an Elizabethan collar (e-collar) to prevent your pet from licking the incision, as this can lead to infection. The collar should remain on at all times.

Bandage or Splint Care

• Keep any bandage or splint clean, dry, and intact.
• Use a heavy plastic bag or a MediPaw Protective Boot when your pet is outside, removing it indoors.
• If the bandage becomes wet, dirty, loose, or emits a foul odor, call us immediately, as a sore may be developing underneath.

Medications

• Follow the prescribed medication schedule exactly and complete the entire course.
• Pain medications are often necessary. Watch for signs of discomfort, such as panting, restlessness, vocalizing, or hiding (common in cats).
• If you miss a dose, do not double the next dose—resume the regular schedule.
• Avoid giving any unapproved medications or supplements, as some can be harmful.
• Use gloves when handling medications that may be toxic to humans, and keep pet medications separate from human medications.
• Pill Pockets can make administering medication easier and more enjoyable for your pet.

When to Contact Us

Seek immediate attention if you notice any of the following:

• Bleeding from the surgical site
• White gums
• A temperature over 104°F
• Depression or unresponsive behavior
• Redness, swelling, or discharge around the incision, as this may indicate infection