My dog won't take her pain meds after being spayed and now she's drooling a lot, should I be worried?

My dog was spayed yesterday, and I've been having a hard time getting her to take her pain medication. Now, she's started drooling quite a bit, and I'm not sure if it's because she’s in pain or if something else might be wrong. I'm quite concerned about this change in her behavior after the surgery. Is there a need to worry if she's drooling so much, or could it be related to the medication issues?

Answer

It's understandable to be worried about changes in your dog's behavior post-surgery, especially regarding drooling which might indicate pain or another issue.

  • Excessive drooling can be a sign of various issues, including pain or nausea.
  • Difficulty administering medication could mean your dog isn't receiving adequate pain relief.
  • Monitor her for other symptoms, but drooling alone right after surgery isn't uncommon.

After being spayed, some dogs may experience discomfort, leading to symptoms like drooling. This can be due to nausea from anesthesia, the pain itself, or the bitterness of medication. It's crucial to ensure she gets her pain medication, so consider using treats or a pill pocket to assist. If drooling continues or other symptoms appear, it's a good idea to contact your vet.

If this is an emergency, please seek immediate veterinary care.

Book a consultation with a licensed vet at Dial A Vet for just $49 AUD if you're unsure or symptoms are getting worse.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Why is my dog drooling after being spayed?

    Drooling can occur due to nausea from anesthesia, pain, or saliva stimulation caused by medication. Monitor her and consult your vet if concerned.

  • How can I give my dog pain medication if she refuses it?

    Try hiding the medication in food she likes, such as cheese or peanut butter, or use a specialized pill pocket treat to make it more appealing.

  • When should I be worried about post-surgery symptoms?

    If your dog shows signs like significant bleeding, continuous vomiting, or extreme lethargy, contact your vet immediately. These could be signs of complications.

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