Post-Surgical Care: What Every Pet Owner Should Know

Proper post-surgical care is critical for ensuring your pet recovers comfortably and successfully. Whether your pet has undergone routine surgery or an emergency procedure, understanding how to care for them at home can make all the difference. Alpine Animal Hospital in Pocatello is here to guide you through every step of the healing process with expert advice and support.

Post-Surgical Care at Alpine Animal Hospital

At Alpine Animal Hospital, we prioritize your pet’s safety and comfort from start to finish. After surgery, our skilled team provides:

  • Comprehensive Monitoring: Pets are carefully observed for pain, vitals, and post-surgical stability.
  • Advanced Pain Management: Medications and laser therapy help control discomfort and reduce inflammation.
  • Detailed Discharge Instructions: Clear guidance on caring for your pet at home, including feeding, activity restrictions, and medication schedules.

When Can Your Pet Go Home?

Your pet will be discharged once they meet the following criteria:

  • Stable vital signs.
  • Alertness and responsiveness.
  • Adequate pain control.

You’ll receive detailed instructions to help ensure a smooth transition to home care.

Caring for Your Pet After Surgery

The first day post-surgery is critical for setting the tone for recovery:

  • Create a Calm Environment:
    • Choose a quiet, warm space away from household activity.
    • Provide a soft, supportive bed for rest.
  • Monitor Closely:
    • Look for signs of pain, such as whining or reluctance to move.
    • Check the surgical site for swelling, redness, or discharge.
    • Refer to the Pain in Animals Checklist for guidance.
  • Feeding:
    • Offer small, easily digestible meals as directed by your veterinarian.

Setting Up a Recovery Space

A designated recovery space can help your pet heal faster:

  • Choose a quiet area away from other pets and distractions.
  • Add rugs or non-slip mats to prevent slipping on hard floors.
  • Use a crate, baby gate, or small enclosed area to restrict movement.

Bathroom Breaks for Pets on Cage Rest

For pets requiring strict cage rest, such as those recovering from back or spinal injuries, limiting movement is essential to prevent further injury. Traditional outdoor bathroom breaks, like walks around the block or free access to the yard, may not be safe for these pets. Instead, consider the following solutions:

  • Potty Pads: Place disposable potty pads near your pet’s recovery area. These provide a safe and convenient option for relieving themselves without requiring unnecessary movement.
  • Indoor Grass Patches: Real or artificial grass patches mimic the feel of the outdoors, making it easier for pets that are accustomed to going outside. These are particularly helpful for dogs during extended periods of recovery.

Monitoring Bathroom Habits

It’s important to keep a close eye on your pet’s bathroom habits, as changes can signal potential complications:

  • Infrequent Urination or Defecation: If your pet isn’t urinating or defecating regularly, contact your veterinarian immediately. This could indicate pain, discomfort, or a serious underlying issue.
  • Incontinence: Accidents in pets that are normally house-trained can be a sign of nerve issues or other complications, especially after spinal surgery or injury.
  • Changes in Urine or Feces:
    • Watch for unusual urine colors (e.g., red or orange, which may indicate blood).
    • Check for diarrhea or constipation, which can be common with opioid pain medications.

Supporting Digestive Health

To help prevent constipation and promote healthy digestion, ask your veterinarian about incorporating highly digestible, fiber-rich foods such as:

  • Canned Pumpkin
  • Cooked Sweet Potato

These gentle additions to your pet’s diet can help keep their digestive system regular while they are recovering. Probiotics like FortiFlora can also be helpful for pets recovering from surgery. Always consult your veterinarian before making dietary changes.

By managing bathroom needs carefully and monitoring their habits, you can help ensure your pet’s recovery stays on track and address any concerns promptly.

Keeping Your Pet Entertained During Recovery

Mental stimulation is essential for pets on restricted activity:

  • Enrichment Toys: Use snuffle mats, lick mats, frozen Kongs, and puzzle toys to keep your pet engaged. Your pet’s normal meal can be slowly given all day through use of these toys.
  • Interactive Games: Simple sniffing games or slow, controlled training activities, like teaching “touch” or “speak” can provide mental stimulation without the need to move.
  • Stroller or Wagon Rides: Allow pets to experience the outdoors without physical exertion.
  • Pheromones: Sprays or collars like Adaptil or Feliway can help reduce stress and anxiety.

Importance of Limiting Activity and Exposure to Other Pets

Activity restriction is crucial to prevent complications:

  • Prevent Re-Injury: Avoid running, jumping, or climbing stairs.
  • Minimize Interaction with Other Pets: Keep other pets away to prevent licking of wounds or rough play.
  • Use Mobility Aids: Slings or harnesses can assist with movement and reduce strain on healing areas.

Signs of Healing and Concerns to Watch For

Signs of Healing:

  • Gradual improvement in appetite and energy levels.
  • Reduced swelling and redness around the incision.

Signs of Concern:

  • Persistent swelling, redness, or discharge from the surgical site.
  • Vomiting, diarrhea, or loss of appetite.
  • Reluctance to move or signs of pain.
  • Gum color that is pale or blue

If you notice any concerning symptoms, contact Alpine Animal Hospital immediately through the contact page.

Using Mobility Aids and Home Modifications

Supporting your pet’s recovery with adjustments at home can make a big difference:

  • Slings or Harnesses: Help pets stand and move without putting pressure on healing areas.
  • Non-Slip Mats: Prevent falls on slippery floors.
  • Accessible Living Arrangements: Move beds, food bowls, and litter boxes to a single, accessible level.

Follow-Up Care and Monitoring

Regular follow-up appointments are vital for ensuring your pet’s recovery stays on track:

  • Assess healing progress.
  • Adjust medications or activity restrictions if necessary.
  • Adding physical therapy exercises at the right time in recovery.
  • Use Alpine’s appointment request page to schedule check-ups conveniently.

Caring for your pet after surgery requires attention, patience, and a supportive environment. With proper home care, regular monitoring, and the expertise of Alpine Animal Hospital, your pet can heal comfortably and return to their normal routine.

For more information or to schedule a follow-up, visit our contact page or call us today.