Post-Surgery Care: What to Expect After Your Pet’s Spay or Neuter Procedure

Spaying and neutering are routine procedures that provide significant health and behavioral benefits for pets. While these surgeries are common, proper post-operative care is essential to ensure a smooth and comfortable recovery for your pet. At Kankakee Animal Hospital, we want to help pet owners understand what to expect after surgery and how to support their furry companions through the healing process.
 

Immediate Post-Surgery Effects

After the procedure, your pet may still be groggy due to anesthesia. Some pets may appear disoriented, wobbly, or even sleep more than usual for the first 24 hours. It’s important to keep them in a quiet, comfortable space where they can rest undisturbed. Ensure they have a soft bed and limit their interactions with other pets and children during this time.
 

You may also notice temporary side effects such as:

• Lethargy or drowsiness

• Mild swelling or redness at the incision site

• Lack of appetite for the first meal after surgery

• Occasional whining or vocalizing
   

These symptoms should subside within a day or two. However, if your pet appears excessively weak, unresponsive, or in severe pain, contact your veterinarian immediately.
 

Incision Care and Monitoring

Your pet’s incision will need to be closely monitored to prevent complications such as infections or reopening of the wound. Follow these care tips to ensure proper healing:

• Check the incision daily for redness, swelling, discharge, or signs of infection.

• Prevent licking or chewing by using an Elizabethan collar (cone) or a recovery suit.

• Avoid bathing or swimming for at least 10–14 days after surgery.

• Restrict activity to prevent excessive movement, jumping, or rough play that could disrupt the incision site.
   

If you notice excessive swelling, bleeding, or a foul odor from the incision, contact your veterinarian immediately.
 

Pain Management and Medication

Your veterinarian may prescribe pain medication to help with post-surgery discomfort. Always administer medications exactly as directed and avoid giving over-the-counter human pain relievers, as some can be toxic to pets.
 

Signs that your pet may be in pain include:

• Whimpering or restlessness

• Reluctance to move or stand

• Loss of appetite

• Excessive licking of the incision site
   

If you suspect your pet is experiencing discomfort beyond what is expected, consult with your veterinarian about adjusting their pain management plan.
 

Diet and Hydration

Your pet may have a reduced appetite immediately after surgery, but normal eating habits should resume within 24 hours. Offer a small meal of their regular food, and ensure they have fresh water available at all times. If your pet refuses to eat for more than 24 hours or experiences vomiting or diarrhea, contact your veterinarian for further guidance.
 

Activity Restrictions

One of the most important aspects of recovery is limiting your pet’s activity. Running, jumping, and rough play can put stress on the incision and delay healing. Keep your pet in a confined, quiet space and take them outside only for bathroom breaks on a leash. Your veterinarian will provide specific guidelines on when your pet can resume normal activities, but most pets should avoid strenuous movement for at least 10–14 days post-surgery.
 

When to Call the Veterinarian

While most pets recover without complications, it’s important to recognize when veterinary attention is needed. Contact Kankakee Animal Hospital if your pet shows any of the following symptoms:

• Persistent vomiting or diarrhea

• Excessive swelling, bleeding, or discharge from the incision

• Signs of infection such as pus, heat, or a foul smell at the surgery site

• Difficulty breathing or extreme lethargy

• Loss of appetite lasting more than 24 hours
   

Get in Touch with Kankakee Animal Hospital

Caring for your pet after a spay or neuter procedure requires patience and careful monitoring. By following post-operative instructions, ensuring proper rest, and watching for any signs of complications, you can help your pet recover comfortably and safely.
 

If you have any questions or concerns about your pet’s recovery, contact Kankakee Animal Hospital to schedule a follow-up appointment or to discuss any concerns you may have about your pet’s post-surgery care. Visit our office in Kankakee, Illinois, or call (815) 332-0600 to book an appointment today.