What to Expect After a Surgical Procedure

We understand that it can sometimes be a little overwhelming when we are reviewing your pet’s surgical discharge instructions after a procedure, so we have come up a few things to share with you in advance to help you be a little more prepared and, hopefully, a little more comforted when bringing your baby home after surgery.

• It is important to restrict the activity for 14 days after the procedure. This means no running, no jumping, and no playing – even if it’s oral surgery. Keep them on a leash when outside and take any stairs slowly, one step at a time. S/he will likely start feeling better before the 14-day mark, but don’t be tempted to let them free too soon! If there are sutures in the skin, we will schedule an appointment to have those removed approximately 2 weeks after the procedure.
• Due to the lingering effects of anesthesia, s/he may be sedated or groggy the evening of the procedure. Sedation can last up to 24 hours and could include some whining, dysphoria, or confusion. Only administer medications according to the doctor’s instructions. Closely monitor them around any stairs, swimming pools, and other pets at home until the sedation wears off completely.  
• Due to the endotracheal tube placed for anesthesia, you may notice some coughing for 24-48 hours after the procedure. If a cough persists beyond 48 hours, please give us a call. 
• Unless directed otherwise, you may give a small amount of their normal food (about 1/4 of their normal portion) and a small amount of water after s/he has settled in at home. Nutrition is an important part of recovery; but since s/he hasn’t had anything to eat since the night before, s/he may be hungry and eating too fast or drinking too much could lead to vomiting. If s/he does not have much of an appetite the night s/he comes home, that is normal; but s/he should resume normal eating/drinking the following day. If s/he refuses to eat, you may add some low-sodium chicken broth or some canned chicken breast in water to the kibble to entice them to eat. If s/he does not vomit or regurgitate any of that food within the first hour, a small amount more may be offered closer to bed time. If your pet has a sensitive stomach, we can certainly recommend a yummy canned food diet appropriate for your pet’s needs and medical history.  
• A special collar (Elizabethan Collar, aka e-collar) may be sent home for them to wear during the recovery period. The collar is to prevent them from reaching the incision with their paws or mouth. If you already have an e-collar at home, please bring it with you at check-in so we can ensure it’s appropriate for the incision. Leave the collar on for 14 days after the procedure. Replace the collar immediately if they remove it and ensure the collar is not too tight or too loose by allowing a two-finger space between the neck and the collar tie for a snug but comfortable fit. Depending on the procedure, a “recovery suit” may be utilized instead of an e-collar. Please speak with one of our surgical technicians if you’d like to learn more about a recovery suit, and whether or not it’s appropriate for the upcoming procedure. 
• Check the incision twice daily. A small amount of seeping blood or serous (clear/blood-tinged) discharge is normal for a few days following surgery, especially in the first 24 hours. You may notice some bruising or minor swelling near the incision as well. If you notice any continued drainage beyond 72 hours, any swelling, foul odors, or frank (dark) blood, please contact the hospital as soon as possible.
• If s/he is having a surgical procedure (including oral surgery), do not bathe or allow them to swim or get wet for at least 14 days after the procedure. Gently towel-dry the incision site if they do get wet and consider having them groomed or bathed before the procedure. For babies with a furry beard, consider having it trimmed before the procedure if there’s a chance for oral surgery. 
• If s/he is having or may have oral surgery, canned or softened food will be recommended for 10-14 days after the procedure. If s/he has a sensitive stomach, you can start introducing canned food a little bit each meal leading up to the procedure or stick to their dry kibble. Just soak it in hot water until it cools, and the kibbles are softened before serving. Different foods will soak and soften at different rates so if this is the route you decide to take, consider one or two test-runs so you’re well prepared.
• If medication is being sent home, follow the prescription label instructions. Please call us with any questions or concerns about administering the prescribed medication(s) and do not administer them outside of the instructions to avoid overdosing. Your discharge instructions will indicate when to start the medication; and if there are multiple medications sent home, you may be instructed to start them at different times. Closely monitor for any signs of an upset stomach: vomiting, diarrhea, inappetence, drooling, lip-smacking, or lethargy. Should any of these occur, please contact us.  You know your pet better than anyone. So, if you ever have any questions or concerns, don’t ever hesitate to contact us directly. We are here for you!

Call us today at 615-383-1000 to learn more or schedule an appointment for your pet.