When your pet needs surgery, it is natural to feel nervous. Understanding what will happen before, during, and after the procedure can make the experience less stressful for both you and your pet. This guide explains what to expect around surgery day and how to take care of your pet at home afterward.
At K-9 Pets Clinic, our team focuses on safe anesthesia, careful monitoring, and clear communication so you know your pet is in good hands.
Before Surgery: Getting Ready
Once your vet recommends surgery, they will start with a pre-surgical check. This may include a full physical examination, blood tests, and a review of your pet’s medical history and current medicines. Use this time to ask questions about the type of surgery, risks, benefits, and expected recovery so you feel prepared.
Your vet may also give you instructions such as when to stop food and water, which regular medicines to continue or pause, and how to manage any existing conditions. Following these guidelines is important for safe anesthesia and a smooth procedure.
On Surgery Day At The Clinic
On the day of surgery, your pet will be admitted to the clinic and settled by the veterinary team. Sedation and pain relief are given before anesthesia, and your pet’s heart rate, breathing, and temperature are monitored throughout the procedure. Most pets stay at the clinic for several hours so the team can watch them as they wake up from anesthesia. You will be updated on how the surgery went and when you can take your pet home.
After Surgery: Waking Up And Going Home
When your pet wakes up, they may seem sleepy, unsteady, or a little confused, which is normal after anesthesia. At K-9 Pets Clinic, we keep pets warm, comfortable, and monitored until they are stable enough to be discharged. Before you leave, your vet will explain what was done during surgery, how to give medicines at home, how to protect the incision site, and when to return for a checkup or stitch removal. Written instructions are very helpful, so ask for a copy to take home.
First 24 Hours At Home
The first day after surgery is usually the most delicate. Provide a quiet, warm resting area away from noise, other pets, and active children. Encourage rest and limit jumping, running, or climbing. Offer small amounts of water at first, then a light meal if your vet approves. A little drowsiness is expected while the anesthesia fully wears off. If your pet refuses food, seems very anxious, or cries continuously, call the clinic for advice.
Caring For The Incision
Proper wound care helps prevent infection and supports healing. Check the incision once or twice a day for redness, swelling, or discharge and make sure the stitches or staples are clean and dry. Prevent your pet from licking or chewing the area by using an Elizabethan collar if recommended. Keep the area dry unless your vet has given specific cleaning instructions, and do not apply creams or home remedies without veterinary advice.
Activity, Rest, And Comfort
Even if your pet seems energetic, their body is still healing. Your vet may advise short, controlled leash walks for dogs instead of free running and ask that cats be kept indoors and away from high places. Avoid rough play, stairs, and jumping on furniture until your vet confirms it is safe. Soft bedding, a calm environment, and gentle attention help your pet feel secure during recovery.
Medicines And Follow Up Visits
Pain management is a very important part of recovery. Give all prescribed medicines exactly as directed and never use human painkillers, as many are unsafe for pets. If you notice vomiting, diarrhea, or unusual sleepiness after a dose, contact your vet. Your pet will usually need a follow up visit to check healing and remove stitches if present, so keep this appointment even if they seem fine at home.
Warning Signs: When To Call The Vet Quickly
Contact your vet or an emergency clinic without delay if you see continuous bleeding from the incision, a bad smell or pus, very swollen tissue at the surgery site, repeated vomiting or diarrhea, difficulty breathing, refusal to eat or drink for more than a day, or sudden collapse or extreme weakness. Prompt attention can prevent small issues from becoming serious complications.
Supporting Your Pet Through Recovery
Your calm presence, patience, and careful home care are just as important as what happens in the operating room. Most pets recover very well with proper rest, pain control, and follow up checks. If your pet is scheduled for surgery at K-9 Pets Clinic or you are worried about how they are recovering, our veterinary team is here to guide you through every step before and after the procedure.