Spay & Neuter Postoperative Care Instructions

If your pet's surgery was in the last 24 hours, when you return home:

• Restrict your pet's food intake to avoid stomach upset from anesthesia. Do not offer food for the first 2-3 hours. After 2-3 hours, you may offer food in small amounts, but do not be concerned of you pet does not want to eat right away. Remove food until morning if vomiting occurs. Offer normal amounts of water.
• Keep the pet in a confined area away from other pets and children for a day. Do not place your pet in a high place (bed, sofa, stairs, etc.). Rest and sleep are essential for healing.
• If pain medication has been prescribed, please follow the written instructions carefully. 
• You must keep your pet from licking the incision. If your pet cannot be restrained from licking, we recommend an E-collar, which fits around the neck and prevents licking. Ask us about purchasing an E-collar for your pet if you think he or she may be inclined to lick the incision site. Please note that repairing any self-inflicted damage to the incision site will be at the owner's expense.

For the next week:

• Restrict your pet's activity. Walk dogs only on a leash and discourage running, jumping, or rough play for 7-10 days.
• Check your pet's incision daily. A small amount of redness and swelling is normal. Do not allow your pet to lick the incision site. If your pet is wearing an E-collar, do not remove it for 3-7 days, or until your pet seems uninterested in licking the incision site.
• Do not wash or clean the incision. Do not bathe or get your pet wet for 7 days. 

Don't hesitate to call us if you have any questions or concerns about your pet's condition.

541-673-1345

For after-hours phone calls, a local on-call veterinarian will be available until 10:00 PM. After 10:00 PM, all calls will be referred to Springfield Emergency Veterinary Hospital, 541-746-0112.