The period following your pet’s surgery is crucial. Surgery can be a challenging experience, not only for your pet but also for you as their caregiver. Proper post-surgical care at home plays a vital role in ensuring a smooth and successful recovery. With the right attention to details like wound care, pain management, and activity restrictions, you can help your pet heal effectively while minimizing stress and discomfort.

Whether your pet just came home after a routine spay or a more complex procedure, proper post-operative care plays a vital role in their recovery. At Animal Hospital at Hillshore, we’re here to guide you through the healing process with helpful tips, clear expectations, and the support you need every step of the way.

First 24 Hours After Surgery: What to Expect

Your pet may seem a little “off” in the first day after surgery—and that’s completely normal.

Common Immediate Effects:

Grogginess or Disorientation: Anesthesia can linger for up to 24 hours.

  • Mild Swelling or Bruising: Around the incision site.
  • Decreased Appetite: Don’t be alarmed if they skip their first meal post-op.

Post-Anesthesia Tips:

  • Create a Safe, Quiet Space: Keep them away from stairs and slick floors.
  • Offer Water Slowly: Allow small sips and limit food initially.
  • Monitor Closely: Call us if you notice vomiting, heavy breathing, or excessive drowsiness.

Need help? Contact our team with any questions after surgery.

Managing Pain: Keeping Your Pet Comfortable

Your pet may not show pain the same way humans do—but that doesn’t mean they’re not hurting.

Watch for These Signs:

  • Whining, restlessness, or trembling
  • Decreased appetite or avoidance of movement
  • Licking or biting near the incision

Pain Relief Options:

  • Prescribed Medications: Always follow your vet’s instructions.
  • No Human Meds: Drugs like ibuprofen or Tylenol are toxic to pets.
  • Cool Compresses: If recommended, these can ease swelling or inflammation.

Learn more from the Merck Vet Manual: Pain Relief for Pets.

Incision Care: Protecting the Surgical Site

Caring for your pet’s incision is one of the most important parts of recovery.

Do:

  • Keep the area clean and dry.
  • Check twice daily for swelling, redness, or discharge.
  • Use an e-collar or medical shirt to prevent licking or scratching.

Don’t:

  • Bathe your pet unless your vet says it’s safe.
  • Let your pet run, jump, or roughhouse.

Call us if you notice:

  • Oozing or foul-smelling discharge
  • The incision opening or bleeding
  • Fever, lethargy, or signs of pain

Activity Restrictions & Gentle Enrichment

How Much Rest Is Enough?

  • Most pets need 10–14 days of limited activity.
  • Keep walks short and on-leash.
  • Crating or using a small room can help manage energy.

Boredom Busters:

Mental stimulation supports recovery while helping reduce stress.

Nutrition: Supporting Healing from the Inside Out

What to Feed After Surgery:

  • Soft, bland meals like boiled chicken and rice—or vet-prescribed recovery diets.
  • Serve small, frequent meals to prevent nausea.
  • Encourage hydration with clean, fresh water at all times.

Foods to Avoid:

  • Rich, spicy, or fatty foods
  • Hard kibble or crunchy treats (if your pet had oral surgery)
  • Table scraps or new foods not cleared by your vet

Watch for Post-Surgical Complications

Even with great care, complications can happen. Be prepared to act quickly.

Common Issues:

  • Licking or chewing the incision
  • Refusing to eat for over 24 hours
  • Constipation or straining

When to Call Your Vet:

  • Vomiting, diarrhea, or sudden behavior changes
  • Pus or blood from the incision
  • Collapsing, hiding, or difficulty standing

Our team is here to help if you’re unsure—don’t wait. Contact us with any concerns.

Supporting Your Pet Emotionally During Recovery

Surgery is stressful—not just physically, but emotionally. Keep your pet feeling safe and secure with:

  • A predictable routine: Regular mealtimes and bathroom breaks
  • A calming environment: Use white noise, pheromone diffusers, or soft music
  • Gentle engagement: Low-energy games and comforting interactions

Explore more tips from AVSAB’s Preventive Behavioral Care Guide and Dog Enrichment Ideas from Guide Dogs UK.

Follow-Up Appointments: Don’t Skip Them

Why They Matter:

  • Your vet checks incision healing, removes sutures if needed, and evaluates recovery.
  • For orthopedic or complex surgeries, we may recommend physical therapy or additional rest.

Schedule your pet’s recheck visit today.

Recovery Isn’t Always Easy—But You’re Not Alone

Your pet depends on you for comfort, safety, and support during healing—and you can count on us to be there every step of the way. From incision care to behavior changes, we’re here to answer questions, ease concerns, and ensure your pet heals as smoothly and safely as possible.

If you need guidance, reassurance, or a quick check-in, get in touch with Animal Hospital at Hillshore. We’re here to help—because your pet’s recovery is our priority too.