I'm really freaking out and could use some advice. My dog Max was neutered five days ago, and initially everything seemed fine. But today, I've noticed the area around his incision looks really red and swollen. It almost seems like there's some kind of discharge, which I’m guessing isn’t normal. Max has also been fussing at the site and licking it whenever I’m not looking. I tried to put a cone on him, but he hates it and manages to get it off. I’ve called the vet, and we’re going in tomorrow, but I’m nervous and don’t know what to do in the meantime. Should I be cleaning it somehow? If anyone has dealt with something similar, I’d really appreciate your thoughts.
Thanks for reaching out with your concern. It's quite common for pet owners to worry about their dog's recovery after surgery. When it comes to infections at the incision site after neutering, it's important to know what to look for and how to help your dog heal at home.
First, let's talk about what you might see if there's an infection. Common signs include redness, swelling, discharge (especially if it's yellow, green, or has a bad odor), and warmth around the incision. Your dog may also be licking the area more than usual or showing signs of pain, like whining or avoiding touch.
At home, you can help by keeping the incision clean and dry. Prevent your dog from licking or chewing the area by using an Elizabethan collar (cone) if necessary. Avoid giving baths or letting your dog swim until your vet gives you the go-ahead. Remember to keep your pup calm and limit physical activity during recovery to prevent any irritation to the site.
However, if you notice increasing redness, swelling, comes lethargy, loss of appetite, or fever (warm nose or ears), these could indicate a more serious issue that requires immediate veterinary attention.
I recommend scheduling a video consultation with one of our vets on Dial A Vet to assess your dog’s incision and discuss next steps. We’re here to ensure a smooth recovery for your furry friend!
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