Spay & Neuter Aftercare Instructions
Caring for your pet after surgery
Procedure
Skin closure
01
The first night
Your pet may be sleepy, a little wobbly, and less hungry than usual tonight. Keep them somewhere quiet, warm, and safe, away from stairs and other pets. Offer a small meal (about half the usual amount) this evening, and normal meals from tomorrow unless we told you otherwise.
02
Rest
03
The incision
- 1Look every dayA healthy incision is clean, closed, and only slightly pink.
- 2Keep it dryNo baths, swimming, or creams unless we say so.
- 3Stop the lickingThe cone stays on, even when you are watching.
- 4Expect a little bruisingMild bruising can be normal. Spreading redness is not.
04
Pain medication
| Medication | How much | How often | Next dose due |
|---|---|---|---|
Never give human pain medicineIbuprofen, naproxen, acetaminophen, and aspirin can be dangerous or deadly for dogs and cats. Only give what your veterinarian prescribed.
Call us if you notice any of theseBleeding that does not stop · the incision opening or anything poking out · swelling, spreading redness, heat, or discharge · not eating for more than a day · vomiting more than once · very low energy after the first day · straining to urinate · pale gums.
05
14-day incision log
Tick each day and bring this to your recheck| Day | Date | Incision looks normal | Cone on | Eating | Pain meds given | Notes |
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Instructions received by (owner) signature
Discharged by signature