Is your pet having an operation soon? Perhaps Fluffy or Fido need to get fixed. Pets also sometimes require surgery for specific medical problems. This can be a worrying time for pet parents! Read on as a local vet discusses helping pets recover from surgery.

Follow Instructions

Your vet should provide you with written instructions for your pet’s care after surgery. Follow these guidelines to the letter, and don’t be afraid to ask questions.

Offer A Comfy Bed

Does your pet have a good bed? If so, wash it before you bring your pet home. If not, this is the perfect time to get one! Your four-legged pal will definitely appreciate having a clean, comfortable spot to rest and recuperate in.

Provide A Quiet Place

Just like people, pets need peace and quiet while they are recuperating. If you have other pets and/or young children, set your furry patient up in a comfy back room, so they can just rest quietly.

Don’t Encourage Play

It’s always best to err on the side of caution when it comes to healing and recovery. Don’t encourage your pet to run, jump, or play until your vet gives the official all-clear. Better safe than sorry!

Protect Stitches

As you may know, many of our animal companions tend to worry at their stitches, especially once they start itching. Your pet may need to wear an Elizabethan collar, also known as the Lampshade or the Cone of Shame, to keep them from chewing their stitches. Inflatable collars also work, and are generally more comfortable. Medical pet shirts are another option. Ask your vet for specific advice.

Watch For Red Flags

Keep a close eye on your furry pal, and watch for signs of infection. Some of the things to watch for are swelling, discoloration, and/or redness near the surgical site; pus; foul odors; fever; lethargy; vomiting and/or diarrhea; and anorexia. Call your vet immediately if you notice anything amiss.

No Baths

Avoid bathing your pet until he or she has completely healed. You definitely don’t want bathwater getting into a surgical site!

Love

Last but certainly not least, pay lots of attention to your furry friend. Offer lots of ear scritches and forehead kisses, and just make sure they feel loved and safe. Do you have questions about your pet’s surgery? Please contact us, your local vet clinic, for all of your pet’s veterinary care needs.