The after surgery care for your pet is crucial in giving your pet the best opportunity to return to normal function. To ensure a smooth recovery, it’s essential to provide a calm and comfortable environment. Follow your tailored post-operative care instructions, including wound care, administering any prescribed medications and adhering to dietary guidelines. Keep a watchful eye on your pet’s incision site, ensuring it stays clean and dry.
As part of the after surgery care, offer your pet a quiet and cosy space to rest, minimising strenuous activities during the initial recovery period. Be patient and understanding, as post-surgery, your pet may need extra comfort and reassurance.
Your pet will likely require crate rest. The crate should be spacious enough for your pet to lie down fully and should include room for food and water bowls, as well as a litter tray for cats. A low-lipped litter tray can be particularly helpful if your cat’s mobility is limited.
To keep your pet comfortable, ensure the bedding is thick and well-padded.
If you have any concerns such as any changes in behaviour, appetite, or the appearance of the surgical site promptly report them to your veterinary practice. Follow-up appointments are vital for the vet to monitor progress and address any concerns.
You may receive basic physiotherapy exercises to help enhance your pet’s muscle strength, nerve function, and joint health. Be sure to follow these exercises carefully, as some are intended only for later stages of healing. It’s important to perform exercises on warmed muscles to prevent injury; you can achieve this with gentle massage and warm packs. If you’ve been advised to use cold packs, apply them only after exercises are completed. Should your pet show any signs of discomfort during an exercise, stop immediately and contact your practice for guidance. You can find videos on different rehabilitation exercises here.
Remember, your attentive care plays a pivotal role in your pet’s healing journey. With your love and the guidance of your veterinary team, your pet will likely recover smoothly and return to their happy, healthy self.
You can find our top tips for keeping your pet rested here – Cat information Dog information
