Post-Operative Wound Care Guide CATS & DOGS

Your pet has just undergone surgery. Now, it’s time for rest and recovery.
If you have scanned the QR code on your discharge sheet, your pet is likely back home with you or on their way. The next few days are crucial for healing. This guide expands on your discharge sheet to help you understand exactly what is normal and what to watch out for.

1. The First 24 Hours: The "Groggy" Phase
It is completely normal for your pet to feel the effects of the anaesthetic for 24 to 48 hours.

• Sleepiness: They will likely want to sleep. Let them rest in a warm, quiet place.

• Appetite: Offer a small portion of their normal food tonight. If they aren't hungry, don't panic—their appetite should return by tomorrow morning.

• The Green Bandage: Check your pet's front legs. If there is a small green bandage where the IV line was, please remove this once you are home.

2. The Golden Rule: No Licking!
The most important part of wound care is preventing your pet from licking, biting, or scratching the area.

• Why? A pet's mouth is full of bacteria. Licking causes infection, inflammation, and can pull stitches out, leading to an open wound that requires further surgery.

• The Solution: You must use a Buster Collar (cone) or a Medical Pet Shirt at all times until the wound is fully healed (usually 10-14 days). Do not take it off "just for a minute" unless you are watching them 100% of the time.

3. Daily Wound Checks
Inspect the surgical site twice a day. You don't need to touch it, just look closely.

• Normal Healing: The skin may be slightly pink or bruised. It should be dry.

• Warning Signs:

  • Discharge (pus, blood, or clear fluid).

  • Unpleasant smell.

  • Excessive swelling or heat.

  • Missing stitches or a gaping wound.

4. Bandage Care (If Applicable)
If your pet has a bandage on a limb:

• Keep it Dry: It must stay 100% dry. Cover it with a plastic bag when going outside (dogs), but remove the bag immediately once indoors.

• Check the Toes: Ensure the toes (if visible) are not swollen, cold, or spreading apart.

• Smell Test: If the bandage smells bad, call us immediately.

5. House Rules: Rest & Recovery

• Rest is Best: No running, jumping, or rough play for 10-14 days.

• Dogs: Lead walks only. No off-lead time in the garden.

• Cats: Keep strictly indoors with a litter tray.

6. When to Call Us (Red Flags)
Please contact us immediately if you notice vomiting, extreme lethargy, or issues with the wound (bleeding, discharge, smell).

Need Reassurance?
We are always here to help.

• Call us: 01354 553457

• Send a Photo: If you are unsure if the wound looks normal, snap a clear photo and email it to reception@sigmavet.uk.