Evaluate the condition of the incision before attempting to treat it at home, especially if the wound has stitches. If there is heat, excessive swelling or bleeding, consult your vet. Normal discharge consists of a light fluid which may have a pink tinge or a little blood in it. If the incision drains with thick, mucousy liquid or is seeping blood, your vet needs to see it.
Following surgery, the skin will initially look red and irritated or bruised. This will decrease gradually if no infection is present. An incision healing properly will look almost closed within 10 to 14 days after surgery. The skin around the incision may harden and a scar appears around 21 days after surgery.
Things You'll Need
- Cotton pads
- Warm water
- Mild soap
- Scissors
- Vet wrap or gauze
- Elizabethan collar
Instructions
Trim any fur around the incision with scissors to keep the area clean and dry.
Wash the incision gently with warm soap and water, using a mild puppy shampoo or baby soap. Antiseptic cleanser should not be used unless your vet instructs you differently.
Rinse thoroughly with warm water and a clean washcloth, splashing the water to avoid rubbing the incision.
Pat the incision dry gently with clean towels or gauze.
Wrap the incision with cotton gauze and vet wrap unless your vet has instructed you to leave it open. Start below the wound and wrap in an upward direction. The wrap should be snug enough to stay in place but not tight.
Change the bandage daily or as instructed by your vet. Check the incision and any liquid draining on the bandage. Wash the incision again if needed. Use fresh, clean gauze and wrap each time.