Vet's Orders: Post-surgical care - Looking after your pet’s stitches at home

Dr. Nina Burger, BVSc

Strict rest is essential after surgery; limit running, jumping, and rough activity to prevent strain on the incision and allow proper healing. Keep the surgical site clean and dry. Do not bathe your pet or allow the wound to get wet until advised. Prevent all licking or chewing of the stitches by using a cone (Elizabethan collar) or recovery suit at all times.

Monitor the incision daily. Mild redness and swelling can be normal initially, but increasing redness, discharge, odour, swelling, or wound opening are not normal and should be addressed. Administer all prescribed medications as directed. Most surgical sites heal within 10–14 days, followed by suture removal.