Caring For Your Pet After Surgery

August 18, 2020

Share this article

Anesthesia and surgery are two scary situations for pet owners, but rest assured your pet is in excellent care at our hospital. We make sure your pet is cared for from check-in to discharge. You have the challenging part, which is a week or two of at-home recovery. Spay and neuter surgeries, mass removals, dental cleanings, and more require a calm environment for your pet to heal. In addition to excellent nursing care that will promote prompt healing. So how do you do that? Here is our simple guide on caring for your pet after surgery!

What To Expect

Like people recovering from anesthesia and surgery, your pet will require special care. This will continue until they are fully alert and aware. When you pick your pet us after an anesthetic procedure, watch out for these conditions.

  • Grogginess
  • Disorientation
  • Ataxia, or wobbling when walking
  • Sleepiness
  • Reluctance to eat, drink, urinate, or defecate
  • Diarrhea or vomiting
  • Snappy attitude towards family members or other pets

Depending on your pet’s procedure and anesthetic protocol, some of these conditions may be normal and can take the rest of the evening to dissipate. Call us immediately if you’re concerned about your pet’s postoperative behavior.

Specialized Care

Your pet’s surgical procedure dictates the care required for rapid recovery. For example, a pet who underwent an extensive dental procedure with extractions will appreciate soft food. This should continue until their mouth fully heals. Standard postoperative care guidelines include:

  • Exercise restriction, especially running, jumping, playing, or stairs
  • Leash walks for bathroom breaks only
  • Inspection of incision site for redness, swelling, or discharge
  • Placement of e-collar, or cone, to prevent licking or chewing at the incision
  • Monitor food and water intake
  • Check for normal urination and defecation (pets may have diarrhea or constipation after surgery)
  • Administer appropriate medication, such as antibiotics or pain medications
  • Schedule follow-up visits to check the progress
  • Communicate with our veterinary team with any issues

While it may be difficult to restrict a rambunctious puppy or kitten to specific activities or administer medication, it’s essential for proper healing.  As your veterinary team, we are here for any problems you notice when it comes to your pet’s healing. If you notice any abnormal issues or have concerns, do not hesitate to reach out to your vet. It’s better to play it safe than sorry! You can contact Andes-Straley online here or call us at (423) 378-4443 today!

The post Caring For Your Pet After Surgery appeared first on Andes-Straley.

Recent Posts

By premier December 27, 2024
As pet owners, we know our furry companions can’t tell us when they’re feeling unwell. That’s why it’s crucial to pay attention to subtle changes in their behavior, habits, or appearance that could indicate a health issue. At Andes Straley Veterinary Hospital, we’re here to help you identify those signs and ensure your pet gets […] The post When to Take Your Pet to the Vet: Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore appeared first on Andes-Straley.
By premier December 18, 2024
The holiday season is a time for celebration, family gatherings, and festive decorations, but it can also bring unique challenges for pet owners. At Andes Straley Veterinary Hospital, we want to ensure that your furry family members stay safe and happy throughout the season. From glittering ornaments to tempting holiday treats, here are some essential […] The post Holiday Safety Tips for Pets appeared first on Andes-Straley.
By premier December 11, 2024
When it comes to leaving your pet in someone else’s care, their safety and well-being are every pet owner’s top priorities. Whether you’re heading out of town for a vacation or a work trip, choosing the right boarding option is crucial. Boarding your pet at a veterinary facility, like Andes Straley Veterinary Hospital, offers unmatched […] The post Why Boarding at a Veterinary Facility is Safer for Your Pet appeared first on Andes-Straley.
By premier December 4, 2024
As temperatures drop, our pets need extra attention to ensure they stay safe and comfortable during the winter months. At Andes Straley Veterinary Hospital, we understand how much your furry friends mean to you, so we’ve put together essential tips for cold-weather pet care. 1. Protect Those Precious Paws Cold weather can be harsh on […] The post Keep Your Furry Friends Safe This Winter appeared first on Andes-Straley.
By premier November 26, 2024
Keeping pets active indoors can be a challenge, especially on rainy days or for those living in small spaces. However, regular exercise is crucial for pets’ health, helping to prevent weight gain, reduce stress, and keep their minds engaged. At Andes Straley Veterinary Hospital, we know that pets need exercise just as much as they […] The post Creative Exercise Ideas for Indoor Pets appeared first on Andes-Straley.
By premier November 20, 2024
As we gather with loved ones this Thanksgiving to celebrate and enjoy a delicious feast, it’s essential to remember that our pets may face some unexpected hazards around the holiday festivities. Keeping our pets safe during Thanksgiving requires a bit of planning and mindfulness, but it can make all the difference in ensuring a joyful […] The post Keeping Your Pets Safe During Thanksgiving appeared first on Andes-Straley.
By premier November 13, 2024
It’s natural to want to show your love for your pet through food and treats. After all, those excited tail wags and purrs of appreciation feel rewarding! However, what starts as a way to pamper your furry friend can lead to unintended consequences. Overfeeding, whether through large meal portions, too many treats, or “people food” […] The post The Dangers of Overfeeding appeared first on Andes-Straley.
By premier November 6, 2024
Matted fur can be an uncomfortable and potentially painful problem for dogs, especially for those with long or curly coats. Without regular care, matting can quickly get out of hand. This can cause discomfort, skin irritation, and even restricting movement if the matting becomes severe. At Andes Straley Veterinary Hospital, we’re here to help you […] The post Preventing and Treating Matted Fur appeared first on Andes-Straley.
By premier October 30, 2024
As the crisp autumn air settles in, it’s time to embrace the festive spirit of Halloween. While this holiday brings joy and excitement for many, it’s important to keep in mind that some Halloween traditions can pose risks to our furry friends. We’ll explore ways to ensure a safe and enjoyable Halloween for your pets, […] The post Halloween and Pets: Ensuring a Safe and Spooktacular Celebration appeared first on Andes-Straley.
By premier October 23, 2024
Did you know that one out of three pets becomes lost in their lifetime, according to the American Humane Association? Did you also know that over ten million cats and dogs are lost or stolen annually in the U.S? Out of these, only 23% get reunited with family. This is why a pet microchip is becoming […] The post Pet Microchip: A Guide to How It Works and Its Benefits appeared first on Andes-Straley.
Show More