Learning that your pet has to go under the knife can be daunting. However, the vet will only recommend it for your pet’s best interest. Understanding the need for surgery can help put your mind at ease. Knowing your pet is in the good hands of a reliable vet team should melt away your anxiety.
Post-Surgery Care
Surgery is classified into two groups: elective and non-elective. Elective surgeries are those that can be scheduled in advance. It doesn’t mean that it is optional; rather, it can just be for conditions that are not life-threatening, like cherry eye tucks or cyst removal. If the elective surgery is for serious cases, the animal surgeon can further explain the situation. You may click on this link to learn more about pet surgeries.
Non-elective surgeries are for life-threatening situations that may also be considered emergencies. Such can be done for internal bleeding, fractures, or malignant skin tumors. After the surgical procedure, there will be sutures, bandages, and pain to worry about. There are ways to enable proper and quick healing for your pet. With these, recovery will be easier for your pet.
Administering Medications
Always follow your vet’s post-surgery instructions. Most of the time, medication given is pain relievers, antibiotics, or sedatives for anxious ones. The vet will tell you the schedule and dosage of the meds. Also, the vet will advise you on how to administer them. You can give pets their meds with a syringe or push a pill in your pet’s mouth.
Handling or Boarding
Some pets might be needed to keep locked in their crates, and some must be controlled from jumping onto beds and couches. Their movement has to be restricted at this time. However, if your pet wants to cuddle, just remember to be careful.
If you are unsure how to handle your recovering pet, there are animal hospitals that can accept them. Medical boarding is available in a lot of vet hospitals. This way, they can be monitored 24/7, given medication on time, and given appropriate activities.
Grooming
While your pet heals, grooming must also be done. Keep your pet’s bandages dry, and learn the wipe-down method of cleaning. Do not submerge your pet in water until the vet says bathing is needed. If you feel a need, you may bring them back to the hospital to let the professionals groom your cat or dog for you.
Feeding
Your pet may not have the appetite post-op, but you may offer them a light, nutritious meal. Remember to give them something easy to digest and clean water to drink. Contact your veterinarian if your pet cannot eat after 48 hours post-op. This may indicate pain or a possible infection.
Laser Therapy for Healing
You may ask your vet about cold laser therapy for dogs and cats to support healing. This procedure promotes tissue healing by stimulating cell regeneration and increasing blood flow. It penetrates deeper tissue and can strengthen the immune system, reduce swelling, promote collagen production, and more.
The Takeaway
Most pet surgeries take about two weeks to heal. During this time, gentle activities and touch are necessary. Always follow your vet’s instructions, and do not skip the follow-up visits to the vet. Let your pet heal beautifully with these tips, and seek professional help if necessary.
