Spaying or neutering your pet is recommended, but, like any surgery, there are always risks of complications. Most pets recover quickly with proper at-home care, but it is extremely important to monitor your pet closely in the days following surgery. Understanding the difference between normal recovery and warning signs can help you catch complications early.

Normal Post-Op Symptoms:

You may notice your pet is quieter than usual, sleeps more, or moves a bit more slowly after their procedure. Your pet should be willing and able to move around. This lethargy should gradually resolve over 24-48 hours. If lethargy is excessive or not improving, contact your veterinarian.  

Anesthesia can cause nausea in some pets. Disinterest in a meal or two is not uncommon. However, pets should show gradual improvement and resume normal appetite in 1-3 days. 

Some pets will vomit once or twice the night of the procedure. If vomiting is excessive, contact your veterinarian for anti-nausea medications and possibly some fluids to prevent dehydration. 

Warning Signs That Require Veterinary Attention:

• Excessive Swelling or Redness: Mild swelling is expected, but if the area becomes hot, very red, or firm to the touch, it could indicate an infection.
• Discharge or Bleeding from the Incision: A few drops of fluid or blood the night of surgery may not be an issue, but anything more than that warrants a phone call, especially if there is any pus-like discharge, foul odor, or continuous bleeding.
• Lasting lethargy- Any lethargy should gradually resolve. By the second or third day, your pet should be interested in normal activities. Highly active dogs can be difficult to keep contained during the 2-10 day period, and some needsedatives to complete the period of rest. If your pet is unusually tired or seems uninterested in normal activities for more than a day or two, it’s time to call your vet.
• Vomiting: Occasional mild nausea can happen post-anesthesia, but persistent vomiting needs to be addressed with supportive veterinary care.
• Chewing or Licking the Incision: Pets can reopen their incision or introduce bacteria by licking. Use an e-collar (cone) if prescribed and contact your vet if the wound appears damaged.
• Signs of Pain: Whining, trembling, or reluctance to move could mean your pet is in pain. Discomfort should lessen over time, NOT get worse. If your pet is showing signs of pain, contact your veterinarian.
• Non-Surgical Problems: Keep in mind that your pet can have any type of medical problem at any time. Issues mentioned here can be a post-operative consideration, but can also be a sign of some other medical problem.Keeping in touch with your veterinarian is important.

When in Doubt, Reach Out!

If you are ever unsure about your pet’s recovery, don’t hesitate to contact your veterinarian. It’s always better to be cautious than to risk your pet’s health! Prompt attention to any unusual signs can help your pet heal quickly and comfortably.

Author: Your Ace of Spays Veterinary Care Team