As a pet parent, one of your primary responsibilities after your pet undergoes surgery is to make sure their recovery goes smoothly. A critical part of this is keeping a close eye on the stitches (also known as sutures) that were used to close the incision site. Just like humans, pets need time to heal after surgery, and by checking their stitches regularly, you can help avoid potential complications like infections or improper healing. Knowing how to care for your pet’s incision site and recognizing when things are not healing as they should can make all the difference in a successful recovery.
Types of Sutures
There are different types of sutures your vet may use to close your pet’s incision. These may include absorbable or non-absorbable sutures, staples, or skin glue, depending on the nature of the surgery and your pet’s needs.
- Absorbable Sutures are the most common type. These sutures dissolve on their own over time and don’t require removal. They are often used for internal stitches or in places that are difficult to access for suture removal.
- Non-Absorbable Sutures, on the other hand, do not dissolve and must be removed by your veterinarian once healing is complete. These are often used for external incisions where you can see the stitches.
- Staples may be used in cases where the incision is longer or requires extra support to stay closed, particularly in surgeries like abdominal operations.
- Skin Glue is an adhesive that may be used for small incisions or when stitches are not necessary. It helps seal the wound without requiring the use of traditional sutures.
Healing Timeline and Stages
The healing of your pet’s incision will progress in several stages, each lasting for a different period.
In the first few days following surgery, you might notice some swelling and redness around the incision site. This is completely normal and part of the body’s natural inflammatory response. During this time, your pet might feel some discomfort, and you should monitor the incision for any signs of increased swelling or changes that could indicate a problem.
After the first week, the body enters the tissue repair phase. During this period, the incision site should begin to close, and the tissue will strengthen. While the outer layer of skin may look healed, deeper tissues are still working on strengthening and bonding together. It’s important to continue limiting your pet’s activity during this stage to ensure the healing process is not disturbed.
By weeks two to four, the incision should be almost fully healed on the surface, but internal healing may still be underway. This phase is crucial for the body to strengthen the tissue that supports the incision. At this point, your pet may start to feel better, but it’s still important to keep an eye on the incision to ensure it’s healing properly.
How to Care for Your Pet’s Incision Site
Proper care of the incision site is essential for a smooth recovery. Keeping the site clean is important to prevent infection, but it should be done gently. Avoid soaking the incision or using harsh chemicals. For cleaning, a soft cloth or gauze with warm water is usually enough unless your vet provides specific instructions. Be cautious not to disturb the sutures, and avoid bathing your pet in a way that could expose the incision to water for too long.
Another critical part of post-surgery care is preventing your pet from licking or chewing at the incision. This is a natural behavior, but it can lead to infection or cause the stitches to come undone. Using an Elizabethan collar (commonly known as the “cone of shame”) can help prevent this. You may also want to keep your pet in a quiet area to limit their movement and reduce the risk of accidental strain on the stitches.
If your pet becomes excessively active, jumping, running, or engaging in vigorous play, it could disrupt the healing process, so limiting physical activity for a period of time is necessary.
Check Your Pet’s Stitches Daily for Signs of Infection or Other Issues
You should check your pet’s stitches daily to make sure everything is healing as it should. Look for any signs of infection, such as unusual redness, swelling, or discharge from the incision. Mild redness and swelling are normal right after surgery, but if these symptoms worsen over time or if you notice yellow, green, or smelly discharge, it’s important to contact your veterinarian right away.
It’s also important to be on the lookout for any signs that the stitches may be loosening or that the wound is opening. If you see gaps forming in the incision, or if your pet appears to be in increased pain, it could mean that the stitches have been compromised, and veterinary attention is required.
Changes in your pet’s behavior, such as a decreased appetite, lethargy, or signs of pain when the incision is touched, can also be indicators of complications. If you notice any of these signs, contact your vet for further guidance.
Final Thoughts
Caring for your pet’s stitches after surgery requires diligence, patience, and attention to detail. By monitoring the incision site, ensuring that your pet avoids licking or chewing the stitches, and watching for signs of complications, you can help your pet recover faster and with fewer problems. Keep your vet informed of any changes in your pet’s condition, and don’t hesitate to seek help if something doesn’t seem right. With proper care, your pet will soon be back to their happy and healthy self.
