Dog recovery after sterilization

Spaying is a surgical procedure performed to terminate reproductive function and involves ligating the fallopian tubes in females or the vas deferens in males. This procedure does not stop the production of sex hormones, and the animal's behavior remains unchanged.

When sterilizing male dogs, a small incision is made in the scrotum, then a surgical thread is placed over the vas deferens. In females, this procedure is more complex: access to the fallopian tubes requires an incision in the abdomen. Veterinarians often refer to spaying as castration in females, where all reproductive organs are removed during the procedure. However, in any case, the recovery process for females is longer and more difficult than for males.

Properly organized care for a dog that has undergone sterilization surgery eases its condition during the recovery period and reduces the risk of complications.

The first day after surgery

Upon arrival home, it's best to place the dog on a flat surface with bedding (preferably the floor, to prevent it from falling off while moving) and cover it with a blanket. Periodically, moisten the oral mucosa with a few drops of water. Urination may occur during recovery from anesthesia, so be prepared to change the bedding.

The animal may regain consciousness almost immediately or after several hours, depending on its body composition and the anesthetic dose. The first sign that the dog is about to wake up will be a reaction to stimulation—twitching of the paws or ears. Since motor reflexes don't return immediately, the animal may feel weak and helpless for a while, but this is short-lived.

Important! As soon as the dog is fully awake, offer it water or wet its nose and tongue with water. Do not feed the animal for the first 24 hours after surgery, as vomiting may occur as a reaction to the food.

While the dog is under anesthesia, it's advisable to monitor it closely. If everything is normal, breathing and heart rate should be regular. A slight increase in temperature is normal, and brief, intermittent muscle twitching or tremors may be observed.

Symptoms that signal danger

The following are considered dangerous signs in the postoperative period:

• heavy, uneven breathing;
• uneven or rapid pulse;
• muscle tremors or twitching that lasts more than half an hour;
• blood impurities in urine;
• suppuration of the suture;
• absence of urine for more than 24 hours;
• significant increase in temperature.

These symptoms may indicate developing complications, such as cardiac dysfunction, pulmonary edema, or the development of a purulent infection. The detection of any of the above signs should prompt immediate medical attention.

Rehabilitation period

To prevent the development of a bacterial infection, antibiotic injections are prescribed from the first day after surgery: Oxacillin, Amoxicillin, Ceftriaxone or Cefazolin. The standard course of antibiotic therapy is 5-7 days. If the dog is in pain, whining, avoiding sudden movements, or trying to reach the scar, it's worth giving analgesics for several days, as severe pain can slow the healing process.

The sutures should be treated with an antiseptic (chlorhexidine or hydrogen peroxide) twice a day for at least a week. Wetting the wound is strictly prohibited. You can also use the following for suture care:

• Levomekol ointment (apply 1-2 times a day, covering with a gauze napkin);
• Terramycin Spray (seam processing held every 3 days);
• Aluminum spray (a product that forms a thin film that prevents contamination of the seam; it should be applied once a day).

The sutures are removed after 1.5 to 2 weeks. Most modern veterinary clinics use absorbable sutures during surgery, so these sutures don't need to be removed. To prevent the dog from licking or scratching the wound, a small apron is placed on the wound (it's best to have several of these so you can change them as they become soiled). If necessary, a special, rigid, funnel-shaped collar can be purchased—this will prevent the dog from biting the itchy incision.

You can begin feeding your pet 24 hours after the surgery. Food should be given in small portions, and for the first few days, it should be soft and easily digestible: pates, ground meat, or baby formula. A delay in bowel movements for up to three days is not dangerous, as the animal's stomach was empty before sterilization, and intestinal motility is slower after anesthesia. If the dog does not recover for more than three days, you can give it one or two tablespoons of Vaseline oil.

Helpful information: A dog's recovery after spaying takes about two weeks. It's recommended to transition the dog to a low-calorie diet, as spayed animals are often prone to weight gain.

Products Limited, Agras Delic, Purina, and Bosch Tiernahrung produce lines of prepared food designed for neutered and spayed animals. If you prepare your pet's food at home, it's best to choose lean meats and add fiber-rich vegetables.

You can also ask our website's staff veterinarian a question, who will answer them as quickly as possible in the comments box below.

Video advice from a veterinarian about postoperative care:

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• Sterilization of a dog
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