Post-Operative Care Information

If your pet has had a general anaesthetic, they may show signs of drowsiness, disorientation or lethargy. Please provide a warm, comfortable and quiet environment following anaesthesia as the pets ability to regulate their body temperature may be impaired.

Food and Water intake: please allow your pet to settle at home for at least an hour before providing any food, we will provide you with a tin/pouch of bland food for that night, as sometimes normal pet food can be a bit rich following an anaesthetic. With rabbits and other small furry pets, such as guinea pigs and hamsters etc it is crucial that they eat as soon as possible. In fact, if they haven’t eaten within a few hours of being home you should contact the surgery – they can suffer from gastrointestinal problems if they don’t eat.

Exercise: Dogs should have lead exercise only for 10-14 days to allow adequate recovery and wound healing. They should not be allowed to run, jump or climb during this time. If you are concerned about boredom, the use of feed puzzles and Kong’s are recommended. Cats on their return home should be kept indoors overnight, as they do not have their full senses following a general anaesthetic. For good wound closure the longer you are able to keep them indoors the better, to avoid damaging the wound/sutures. For our small furry pets such as rabbits, guinea pigs etc who have had a surgical procedure, you should remove any climbing type toys as we want to minimise jumping and climbing if possible, to allow the wound to heal.

Next Appointment: a post-operative / hospital check will be due in 2-3 days in some cases, and a final check or suture removal appointment will be due in 10-14 days – please make these appointments with reception.

Wound care: Monitor and prevent interference with surgical wounds, bandages or sutures. We can provide you with a buster collar if required, however sometimes the use of body suits to cover the area is better – we can advise and supply you with a suitable size if needed.

Medications: please give any medications as directed, and ensure your pet completes the course. Please follow any recommendations closely, as medications may need to be given before food, some after food and some with food!! Any specific instructions will be detailed on the label.

Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any concerns, or if your pet doesn’t eat, drink or toilet for 24 hours post procedure. If any wounds become swollen, inflamed, bleed or begin to smell, or if your pet appears agitated or unable to rest/settle, then please notify us.