Incision Care

Aftercare:

*       Your pet may be drowsy after anesthesia today. Limit his/her access to stairs and furniture. For the first evening, give limited quantities of water and feed only a small meal (about ¼ of normal size) as anesthesia can cause nausea and vomiting.

*       If your pet has received IV fluids, you may notice an increase in urination for the next 8-12 hours.

*       Keep the incision clean and dry (i.e. no baths or swimming) for 10 days. Monitor for licking or chewing at the incision. A plastic restraint collar (E-collar) can be obtained from the clinic if your pet is licking or chewing the incision. If there is a bandage, protect it from moisture and prevent your pet from chewing it off until it is removed in ______ days.

There are no exercise restrictions.

There are exercise restrictions – limit exercise to short leashed walks only. Discourage running, jumping, or rough play.

Concerns – Signs to Watch For:

*       Redness, heat, swelling, or discharge from the incision. Mild bruising and swelling up to ¼” are normal.

*       Vomiting, lethargy, & appetite loss.

*       Licking or chewing at the incision.

Recheck:

There are no sutures to remove.

There are sutures to remove in 10-14 days. Please call for an appointment.