Pet orthopedic surgery is a major procedure that requires careful post-operative care to ensure a smooth recovery. Whether your pet has undergone joint, ligament, or bone surgery, following the right steps can prevent complications and help them heal properly. Here’s what you need to know about post-surgery care for your pet.
Follow Your Veterinarian’s Instructions
Your vet will provide specific post-surgery care guidelines based on your pet’s condition. These instructions cover medication schedules, wound care, activity restrictions, and diet changes. Follow them precisely, and don’t hesitate to ask questions if something is unclear. Keeping a written copy of the instructions handy can be useful.
Managing Anesthesia Side Effects
After pet orthopedic surgery, pets may feel groggy, disoriented, or nauseous due to anesthesia. Loss of appetite and mild lethargy are common but should subside within 24 hours. Offer a small, bland meal like boiled chicken and rice to ease digestion. Ensure they rest in a quiet, comfortable space to recover from anesthesia’s effects.
Restrict Movement to Prevent Injury
Excessive movement can disrupt healing and lead to complications. Prevent running, jumping, and climbing stairs for the duration recommended by your vet. Crate rest may be necessary for certain procedures.
Set up a confined recovery space:
- Use a playpen, crate, or small room with soft bedding.
- Remove furniture or obstacles that could encourage jumping.
- Use baby gates to block off stairs.
- Supervise bathroom breaks on a short leash.
Managing Pain and Medication
Your vet will prescribe pain medications and possibly antibiotics. Administer them on schedule to keep discomfort under control and prevent infections. Use a calendar or phone reminder to track doses and avoid missed or double doses.
Common medications include:
- Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): Reduce pain and inflammation.
- Opioids: Used for severe pain but require careful dosing.
- Antibiotics: Prevent infections after surgery.
- Sedatives or Anti-Anxiety Medications: Help pets stay calm during recovery.
If your pet seems excessively drowsy or shows signs of distress, contact your vet immediately.
Caring for the Incision Site
Proper wound care prevents infections and speeds up healing. Keep the incision site dry and monitor it daily for redness, swelling, discharge, or a foul smell—signs of infection.
Tips for incision care:
- Prevent licking or biting: Use an Elizabethan collar (E-collar) or an alternative recovery suit.
- Keep bandages dry: Cover them with plastic wrap during outdoor trips and remove the covering indoors.
- Avoid baths: Do not bathe your pet until the vet confirms it’s safe.
- Check stitches regularly: If they appear loose or missing, call your vet immediately.
Providing Proper Nutrition
Good nutrition supports healing. Stick to your pet’s normal diet unless advised otherwise. If their appetite is low, offer small, frequent meals.
Recommended foods:
- Lean proteins: Chicken, turkey, or fish for muscle repair.
- Omega-3 fatty acids: Found in fish oil, these help reduce inflammation.
- Vitamins and minerals: Calcium and vitamin D support bone healing.
Avoid giving extra treats or table scraps that could upset their stomach.
Physical Therapy and Gentle Exercise
Your vet may recommend light physical therapy to aid recovery. Follow their guidance on appropriate exercises based on the type of surgery.
Gradual movement helps rebuild strength:
- Passive range-of-motion exercises: Gently move the affected limb as instructed by your vet.
- Leash walking: Short, controlled walks can improve circulation and muscle tone.
- Cold or warm compresses: Reduce swelling and stiffness as advised by your vet.
Never force your pet to move if they seem in pain.
Recognizing Complications Early
Monitor your pet for warning signs of complications, such as:
- Excessive swelling or redness around the incision
- Persistent whining, shaking, or unusual behavior
- Limping or refusing to use the affected limb after the initial healing phase
- Foul-smelling discharge or bleeding from the incision
- Loss of appetite for more than 48 hours
If you notice any of these signs, contact your vet immediately.
Keeping Your Pet Mentally Stimulated
Recovery can be frustrating for active pets. Boredom can lead to anxiety or restlessness, so provide low-energy enrichment activities.
Ideas for mental stimulation:
- Interactive toys: Puzzle feeders and slow feeders can keep their mind engaged.
- Gentle petting and massages: Offer comfort and relaxation.
- Calming music or audiobooks: Create a soothing environment.
Avoid activities that encourage excessive movement.
Gradual Return to Normal Activity
Full recovery from pet orthopedic surgery can take weeks to months. Gradually increase activity levels under your vet’s guidance. Avoid off-leash play, running, or jumping until fully cleared.
Rehabilitation tips:
- Start with short walks and increase duration slowly.
- Allow supervised play in controlled environments.
- Schedule follow-up vet visits to track healing progress.
Rushing the process can lead to setbacks, so patience is key.
Conclusion
Helping your pet recover after pet orthopedic surgery requires patience and diligence. By following your vet’s instructions, managing pain effectively, restricting movement, and providing mental stimulation, you can ensure a smoother healing process. Regular check-ups and a gradual return to normal activity will set the foundation for a full recovery.
If you have any concerns, don’t hesitate to contact us for expert guidance and support.
