Aftercare instructions for your pet:

·        Keep your pet away from stairs and open water containers (including toilets) since he/ she may be groggy after you take her/ him home.

·        Keep your pet isolated so that he does not get hurt.

·        Keep your animal warm and dry in the house tonight (and preferably for a few more days).

·        CATS only:  Leave your cat in the carrier until he is awake enough to walk, then keep him in a confined area such as a bathroom or laundry room to monitor for the rest of the evening.

·        Make sure your pet is fully awake before giving any water. 

·        Kittens and puppies under 4 months can eat like normal tonight, but adult animals should only be given a small amount of food and water.

·        If your pet throws up for any reason, take away the food and water until the following day.

·        DOGS only:  Limit your pet’s activity for the next 7 days – no jumping or strenuous exercise.

·        Keep the incision dry for 10-14 days – no swimming or baths.

·        Do not let your pet lick the incision!  E-collars are available and suggested for animals that lick (adult male dogs, especially).

·        Some redness around the incision site or a knot-like swelling a couple of days after surgery is not unusual.

·        A colored discharge from the incision is NOT normal – call the aftercare number listed above.

·        If your pet seems lethargic (tired), or does not eat normally within 48 hours, please call the aftercare number.

·        The stitches are absorbable and will dissolve over the next several weeks – your pet does NOT need to return to have them removed.

If your pet was in heat at the time of surgery, it is very important that you keep her isolated from the males.  She may still be attractive to the males and could be seriously injured if she attempts to breed following surgery.