While most spay surgeries are performed without complications, occasionally some incisions will become infected. If an animal's surgery site becomes infected the veterinarian who performed the surgery should be contacted.
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Signs
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An infected incision will turn the skin around the wound red. The skin will be warm and might begin to swell. Occasionally, fluid will drain from the incision site.
Diagnosis
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The veterinarian will want to examine the animal's incision and perform a physical exam to check the animal's temperature and heart rate.
Important Information to Relay
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Tell the veterinarian if the animal has any other symptoms such as vomiting, frequent urination, pain, or stops eating.
Treatment
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Treatment of an infected incision will primarily consist of antibiotics and pain relievers. Some animals will need to be fitted with an Elizabethan collar (long plastic cone over the head) to prevent them from licking at the wound.
Prevention
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Keep the animal as still as possible for the first few days after the surgery. Do not allow the surgery site to become dirty or wet for a week after surgery. Prevent the animal from licking the wound.
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