A Simple Guide: How to Care for Pet After Surgery

Surgery can be stressful for pets and their human companions. Knowing how to care for your furry friend after surgery can help them get back to a normal, active lifestyle quickly and without complications. After all, your pet will need special care after surgery. They will need to relax more and may also require special foods. 

As a pet parent, you should do everything possible to protect your animal companion from post-op complications and problems. Here is a simple guide to providing proper care for your recovering pet.

Follow the Vet’s Post-op Instructions

Whichever procedure your pet undergoes, your veterinarian at Waco Animal Emergency Clinic will give you specific and clear care instructions. It is best to follow the instructions carefully since there may be very important and specific instructions relating to post-surgery care. 

Ensure Bed Rest

Set up a pet crate or fenced-in area with a comfortable blanket. It should be large enough for your furry friend to turn around, stand up, and lie back down. When nature calls, ensure your pet does not walk too far and bring them inside once done. It would help if you did this for as long as your veterinarian believes it is necessary.

Keep Up With Medication

Your pet may require antibiotics and pain medications after surgery. Set the alarm to ensure you do not forget to give medication as needed. Always read the instructions to ensure you administer the correct doses in the right way.

Create a Relaxing Environment

Keep your recovering pet away from loud noises, small kids, or anything that could cause stress. One excellent idea is to set up a quiet room in a part of your house where your family members do not spend much time. 

Watch for Odd Behaviors

As the surgical site begins to heal, watch your pet for any behaviors that could damage the site or cause infection. Your furry friend may try to lick, scratch, or bite the wound. Take steps to stop them from engaging in these behaviors. Consult your veterinarian about the behaviors to watch for.

Proper Feeding

Your pet may need to eat less in the days following surgery. Avoid providing rich foods that could encourage overeating. Also, avoid using ingredients that could cause an upset stomach. If you are in doubt, feed your animal pal the foods your veterinarian recommends. Provide water periodically throughout the day, and watch as your pet drinks—a groggy pet on pain meds may fall asleep while drinking, leading to accidental drowning.

Watch for Problems

Following your pet’s surgery, you should watch for problems or symptoms like strange odors and oozing around the treatment site. Such symptoms could indicate your furry friend is struggling with an infection. Call your veterinarian immediately if you notice worrisome signs. 

Conclusion

Every post-op recovery is different. So, it is best to talk to your veterinarian following the procedure to determine what to expect during your pet’s recovery. Please write down the recommendations and keep them posted somewhere where everyone in your household can see them. You should also post the veterinarian’s emergency number in the same place so everyone can find it easily.

For more about pet surgery, visit Waco Animal Emergency Clinic at our Waco, Texas office. Call (254) 752-6100 to speak to a staff member today.