After Surgery: How to Care for Your Pet

Your pet has had major surgery and will need to be well cared-for afterwards to help prevent complications. Following the instructions below will help ensure your pet has a safe and comfortable recovery.

If you have any concerns or questions as your pet recovers: TEXT a picture and your question: 828-564-1110.

Noah’s Ark Humane Society has medical staff available 7 days a week from 9 am to 6 pm. Your pet may be subdued and have less appetite for up to 24 hours after surgery. If your pet stops eating, drinking, or experiences vomiting, pale gums, or heavy breathing- contact our office.

  • The area should continue to look like it did immediately after surgery. Monitor for swelling, redness, and complete closure of the surgery incision. Please check incisions before 6 pm to ensure we’re available to answer any concerns.

  • It’s always best to keep pets indoors where they stay clean and dry. Try keeping trapped cats in a sheltered area for at least 2 days. NO RUNNING, ROUGH HOUSING, OR JUMPING FOR AT LEAST 7 DAYS.

  • Do not allow your pet to lick the incision area. Licking is the #1 reason pets need follow up care after a spay or neuter surgery. Use an e-collar on your pet if necessary. They’re available from us or at your local Tractor Supply or Walmart.

  • Keep your girls strictly away from the boys after surgery for at least a week. Hormones will not settle down for at least 4 weeks post-surgery.

  • Tonight, your pet should be offered water and approximately ½ their usual amount of food. Tomorrow, resume normal feeding. Puppies and kittens may be fed a small meal, if they eat readily and have no vomiting, they may have another small meal before bed. IMPORTANT: Hormones and metabolism decrease after spay/neuter surgery. Energy needs will decline over the first month by approximately 25%. Gradually reduce the amount of food you were feeding prior to this surgery to make sure your pets do not gain unhealthy excess weight. Example: If you previously fed 2 cups of food per day, within a month you will reduce food to 1 ½ cups per day. Questions? We’re here to help! 828-564-1110