- After surgery
Post-op instructions
for a smooth recovery.
Everything you need to care for your pet after surgery — from feeding and rest to incision checks, medications, and the warning signs that mean it’s time to call us.
Recovery essentials
Limit activity
10–14 days for female dogs and cats, 5–7 days for male cats. No running, jumping, or roughhousing.
Check the incision
Inspect the incision site twice a day for redness, swelling, drainage, and scabbing.
Prevent licking
Use a cone-shaped Elizabethan collar to keep your pet from licking the incision.
Keep bandages dry
Cover bandages with plastic wrap or a bag when outside to prevent infection.
Don't skip follow-ups
Follow-up visits let your vet monitor progress and watch for signs of infection.
Feed thoughtfully
Wait until your pet regains coordination and anesthesia has worn off before feeding.
Manage pain
Give all prescribed pain medications exactly as directed by your veterinarian.
Rest & recovery
Provide a quiet, warm space so your pet can sleep off the anesthesia in comfort.
Call us immediately if you notice
Pale gums
Extreme lethargy
Discharge or excessive bleeding from the incision
Labored breathing
Excessive vomiting and/or diarrhea
Difficulty urinating
Frequently asked
What should I do when my cat/dog arrives home after surgery?
Keep your pet warm and comfortable by providing a soft, clean bed in a quiet, draft-free room at 68–75°F (20–24°C). Your pet should remain indoors. For most procedures, restrict activity for one week — avoid running, jumping, and other strenuous activity that could strain the wound.
When can I feed my cat/dog?
You may offer about half their usual dinner a few hours after arriving home. If they still seem hungry, offer the rest an hour later. Some pets experience nausea after general anesthesia, so smaller portions help reduce the risk of vomiting. Unless otherwise instructed, water should not be restricted.
My cat/dog is very sleepy — is this normal?
Yes. General anesthetics and sedatives can take several hours to wear off and may leave your pet drowsy for a day or so. Over 24–48 hours, behavior should gradually return to normal. Contact the hospital if you are concerned.
Why has my cat/dog's foreleg been shaved?
A shaved area on a front leg is typically where anesthetic or sedative was administered. Many pets also receive IV fluids through a catheter during surgery; the hair must be removed so the area can be properly disinfected.
My pet has a slight cough since the operation. Should I be concerned?
A tube may have been placed in the trachea during anesthesia to deliver oxygen and anesthetic gas. This can cause mild irritation and a slight cough that typically resolves in a few days. If coughing persists or worsens, contact the hospital.
What if my pet licks the wound or chews the stitches?
Pets instinctively try to clean the surgical site. Use the Elizabethan collar (cone) or recovery suit provided. If you weren’t given one and your pet begins licking, call the hospital. If stitches are removed, call us as soon as possible.
What should the incision look like, and when should I be concerned?
The incision should be clean with edges together and a normal or slightly pink color. Mild bruising and brief seepage of blood within 24 hours can be normal. Contact us immediately if you see continuous bleeding, seepage beyond 24 hours, excessive swelling or redness, or unpleasant odor or discharge.
When do the stitches need to be removed?
Most skin stitches are removed 7–14 days after surgery depending on the procedure. You’ll receive instructions on when to return. Some sutures are placed under the skin and dissolve on their own — ask your veterinarian if you’re unsure.
When can my pet resume normal activities?
This depends on the procedure. Most pets need activity restricted for one to two weeks or until sutures are removed. Avoid baths during this time — moisture can introduce bacteria into the wound. Your veterinarian will provide detailed instructions.
Will my pet receive medication after surgery?
Your pet may be sent home with pain or oral medications. READ THE LABEL CAREFULLY and administer ALL medication as instructed. Contact the hospital if you’re having trouble treating your pet.
