Helping Your Pet Recover From Surgery

Is your furry friend slated to have a procedure done soon? Spay/neuter surgery is by far the most common operation for pets, but it’s by no means the only one. There are dozens, if not hundreds, of procedures that Fido and Fluffy may need to undergo. It isn’t easy knowing your beloved animal companion needs a medical procedure. Even routine, minor procedures can be quite nerve-wracking for worried owners!  In this article, a local Heath, TX vet offers advice on helping your pet recover.

Quiet Spot

Many people choose to recover from surgery by settling in on the couch and binge-watching a favorite show. Your furry pal is also going to want to take it easy. Make sure they have a clean, comfy bed to snuggle up in. This should be in a quiet spot. If you have other pets, you may want to keep them in a separate area, at least for the first few days.

Instructions

Your vet will provide you with aftercare instructions, including information on any medication that you’ll need to administer and any dietary or exercise restrictions. Read these very carefully, and follow instructions to the letter. Don’t be afraid to reach out with questions! 

Communication

Make sure everyone else in the house is up to speed. If you have young children, you may need to explain that their four-legged pal isn’t feeling well. Let them know that Fido and Fluffy may appreciate being petted gently, but they may also prefer to be left alone, and that this isn’t the time to try to hold them or play with them.

Warning Signs

Every surgery is a bit different, so specific red flags may vary from pet to pet. That said, there are some general warning signs to watch for. These include fever, lethargy, vomiting, respiratory issues, trembling, diarrhea, and lack of appetite. You’ll also want to keep an eye out for problems at the incision site. These include things like pus, redness, swelling, bleeding, heat, and a foul odor. Contact your vet immediately if you see anything off.

Exercise Restrictions

Your furry pal is going to be more or less grounded for at least a few days. While Fido will of course need potty breaks, hold off on long walks or hikes. Generally, the first week is the most crucial. Your pet will slowly be able to be more active as they heal. Ask your vet for specific advice on this.

Medication

Your vet may prescribe painkillers or other medications. Stick to what is recommended. Never give Fido or Fluffy any type of medication without clearing it with your vet. This goes double for human medications. Many things made for us are toxic to pets!

Do you have questions about your pet’s health or care? Contact us, your local Heath, TX pet hospital, anytime!