Post-op advice
Helping your pet to recover after an operation
The vast majority of our patients make a smooth recovery after operations – but there are a few things you can do to help them to get back to their usual selves.
If your pet has specific requirements our team will inform you when you collect them after the procedure, but below are a few general rules.
Provide a quiet, comfortable and confined area for your pet to rest and recover. They may seem subdued for a day or so, but after a couple of days we would expect them to be eating, drinking and toileting normally.
Make sure to give the full course of painkillers and any other medication we’ve provided. Monitor them for any signs of pain or discomfort, such as restlessness or panting – and get in touch with our team if you have any concerns.
Your pet may have a sticky plaster over the wound while it heals. This can come away at any time but it usually stays on for five to seven days.
As soon as it comes off, it would be helpful if you could send us a picture of PetsApp, so we can advise whether it’s healing correctly. If you don’t already have PetsApp, you can download it here.
It’s important that your pet stays calm for a week and slowly builds up with their exercise. If you have a dog, keep them on a lead. If they have a buster collar or recovery suit, please leave this on until advised by our team – it’s usually on for seven days.
If you have any questions or concerns don’t hesitate to get in touch with the team, there’s no such thing as a silly question and it’s better to be safe than sorry.
And remember, our Best Buddy Unlimited care plan includes free vet and nurse consultations. That means if you need any follow up appointments, you don’t pay any extra.
Don’t pay more than you have to!
Post-op FAQs – Stellar Vets in Littlehampton
Your pet will need to fast the night before surgery with no food after 8pm, but they can have water up to the morning of the procedure.
It’s normal for your pet to be quiet, off their food and reluctant to move. A small amount of wound ooze may occur for 20 minutes or so.
Yes. We recommend offering a small meal at home. Your pet will have had some food at the clinic post-surgery.
Your pet may wear a bandage, plaster, collar or surgical suit. If there are external stitches or a dressing, help them avoid licking or chewing them.
Keep the wound clean and dry. If the plaster comes off (usually within five to seven days), send a photo via PetsApp so we can check how it’s healing.
Keep them calm and confined for a week, avoiding jumping or running. Dogs should remain on a lead during walks.
Sedation isn’t typically required after surgery. If it is used, we’ll discuss this with you beforehand.
If you notice persistent wound discharge, signs of pain (restlessness or panting), or anything unusual, please contact our team immediately.
Stellar Vets Littlehampton
14-16 Anchor Springs
BN176BP UK
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