Post-operation Desexing Tips for a Fast and Healthy Recovery
Desexing is an important procedure for your pet’s health and well-being, but just as important is making sure that they receive proper aftercare to support a smooth recovery. Whether it’s a dog or a cat, desexing aftercare helps prevent complications, minimise discomfort, and speed up the healing process.
Bayside Vets is here to guide you through the steps needed for effective recovery after a desexing surgery, so you and your pet can get back to enjoying life together as soon as possible.
1. Immediate Cat and Dog Desexing Aftercare
The first 24 hours after surgery are the most critical for your pet’s recovery.
Keep a close eye on their vital signs — their breathing, temperature, and general comfort. While they may be a bit sleepy, any signs of extreme lethargy, laboured breathing, or unresponsiveness could mean a call to the vet is needed.
Your vet will likely prescribe pain relief to help your pet through the first few days. Follow their instructions closely to keep your furry friend comfortable and to prevent the urge to scratch or lick the surgical area.
And in the first few days, limit your pet’s activity. Jumping, running, and rough play should be avoided to protect the surgical site.
2. Keep the Surgery Site Clean and Dry
Keeping the surgical site clean and dry is key to preventing infection and speeding up recovery. The most minor exposure to dirt or moisture can introduce bacteria to the area and it increases the risk of infection.
Also keep a keen eye on your pets, as they often want to lick or scratch the site as it begins to heal. A recovery suit, an Elizabethan collar, or bandages (if recommended by the vet) can help prevent this behaviour and keep the site safe and clean.
Part of a good dog and cat desexing aftercare routine is checking your pet’s incision daily. A healthy healing site will have minimal redness, no oozing or discharge, and little to no swelling. If anything looks concerning, book an appointment with Bayside Vets to receive professional advice on the right course of action.
3. Follow a Gradual Return to Activity
Most pets are ready for short walks or gentle play after a few days of rest. Nevertheless, the desexing aftercare must continue. It’s important to ease them back to regular activity gradually.
Restricted Movement (2 – 7 Days)
As the stitches start to settle, you can slowly reintroduce longer walks and playtime. For dogs, it’s best to avoid heavy exercise until 14 days post-surgery.
Gradually Increase Activity(7 – 10 Days)
Ensure your cat has plenty of toys to play with. This can reduce their inclination to bite out of boredom.
Fully Recovered (10 – 14 Days)
For most pets, recovery will have happened around this mark. Something to note: Female dog desexing recovery time is often longer than that of male dogs, while cats generally experience faster healing because of smaller incisions.
4. Feeding and Hydration for Desexing Aftercare and Recovery
Returning home from the vet post-surgery, your pet may not want to eat, and that’s normal. Their appetite should come back by next morning.
But if they still aren’t interested in their normal food, give them blandly cooked chicken breast with a little bit of white rice. (Do not use salt and do not give them any fatty food). In the succeeding days, start with small, regular meals. It’s gentler on their stomachs.
Dehydration can also slow down recovery, so it’s important to give your beloved pets fresh water regularly. Cats, in particular, may need some encouragement to drink — placing water bowls in familiar spots can help.
If your pet’s appetite still hasn’t returned by the second day, please come back and see the vet.
5. Recognising Complications in Dog and Cat Desexing Aftercare
Knowing what to watch for will help you address any potential issues early. As a general rule, here’s what you should keep an eye on:
Persistent swelling, oozing, or redness around the incision site. (It can be a sign of infection).
Behavioural changes, like excessive whining or avoiding movement. (It can also mean your pet is experiencing pain).
Your pet is licking their wounds constantly.
Your pet is not responding to treatment as you feel they should be.
Vomiting and loss of appetite beyond the first day.
A high fever
The early treatment of any complication can make a huge difference in their recovery.
6. Providing Support and Comfort
Cats and dogs can recover faster when they’re in a calm, quiet space. Even when they’ve passed the full recovery window, don’t forget to schedule a visit to your vet and do a postoperative checkup — just to ensure that everything is healing as expected. This is a good opportunity to ask any questions and get additional guidance for desexing aftercare.
There are also things you can do to make sure your home is a cosy place for your pets to rest and recover.
Set aside a calm area, a room, or a space in the house where your pets can stay without being disturbed. During the recovery period, it is important to minimise stress — this ensures that your beloved furry friends can heal faster.
Common Questions on Desexing Surgery
How long does desexing surgery take?
Desexing surgery can take anywhere from 30 minutes up to an hour, depending on the pet’s size, age, and gender. Recovery from anaesthesia may take a few more hours before they’re ready to go home.
How long does it take for a dog or cat to recover from desexing?
Most pets recover within 10-14 days. There’s also a noticeable improvement by the first week. Female pets may require a slightly longer recovery time than males.
What can I do if my dog or cat keeps licking the surgery site?
Licking can introduce bacteria to the wound and increases the risk of infection. Elizabethan collars or recovery suits are effective options to prevent licking and ensure the site stays dry and clean.
When can I give my pet a bath after desexing?
It’s recommended to wait at least two weeks or until the vet confirms the incision is fully healed. Bathing too soon can irritate the wound or cause infection.
What should I do if my pet isn’t eating after surgery?
A slightly reduced appetite is normal for a day or two after the desexing surgery. If this persists beyond 48 hours, or if your pet seems unwell, visit our clinic for a consultation.
Handling Compassionate Aftercare with Bayside Vets
A well-rounded approach to desexing aftercare can help your pet recover faster and more comfortably. By following these simple tips, you can give your pet the best chance for a smooth recovery.
At Bayside Vets Australia, we’re here to support you at every step — whether you need additional veterinary services or have concerns. Contact our team in Wolli Creek or Rhodes for all your pet care needs.
