Expert Advice
Post-Spay Care — helping her heal
Your pet has been spayed through an abdominal incision. Proper care at home is essential to ensure a smooth recovery.
Your pet has been spayed through an abdominal incision, which is a form of internal surgery.
Pets do not always understand that they need to rest after surgery — your support during this period is important.
Immediately After Surgery
When you bring your pet home, she may be drowsy or sleepy, which is normal following anaesthesia and surgery. This should improve over 12–24 hours.
You may notice some bruising around the incision, similar to what humans experience after surgery. It is normal for your pet not to be completely back to normal for a few days.
To support recovery:
- Keep your pet in a quiet, warm, comfortable area
- Offer small amounts of food and water initially
- Allow plenty of rest and limited activity
Most pets return to their usual behaviour within a couple of days.
Activity and Rest
Pets often recover quickly and may attempt to jump, run, or play, which can stress the surgical site or sutures.
To prevent complications:
- Restrict activity until the sutures are removed
- Avoid rough play, jumping, or running
Monitoring for Problems
While complications are uncommon, it is important to monitor your pet for signs of concern.
Contact the clinic if you notice:
- Dullness or lethargy, especially after the first 24 hours
- Redness or irritation around the suture line
- Swelling or lumps near the incision site
- Excessive licking or chewing at the sutures
Follow-Up Appointment
Suture removal
Sutures are typically removed 10 days after surgery. Please ensure you book a follow-up appointment so your veterinarian can check the healing progress and remove the sutures.
Concerned?
If you have any concerns about your pet’s recovery, please contact the clinic.