Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

Is it normal for my dog to bleed from her vulva after spay surgery?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Why is there bleeding from my dog's vulva after spay surgery?

This question includes photos that may contain sensitive content. Click to view.

View more to consider that the photos may include sensitive content.

4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Tomasz Wnuk

Veterinarian

Published on May 20th, 2015

It does happen that some dogs will have a small amount of discharge from the vagina [after being spayed](https://www.petcoach.co/article/surgery-on-your-pet-what-to-expect-before-and-after-the-pro). If your dog is behaving otherwise, I would advise you to monitor her at home. However, if she is lethargic, weak, has pale gums or is passing a large amount of blood, you should take her back to your veterinarian or to the nearest veterinary ER immediately. [Rest her](https://www.petcoach.co/article/6-ways-to-rest-your-pet-after-surgery-or-injury) as mush as possible to aid in recovery.

Vote icon

111Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Megan, DVM, CVA

    Veterinarian

    Published on May 2nd, 2018

    This is usually normal. A small amount of oozing can happen. You can put some pressure on it with a cold compress and this should help ease the oozing. If the bleeding is excessive, a lot of bruising is seen, or if she is still oozing tomorrow, I would have your vet take another look at it. If her gums are pale pink or white, this is an emergency and I would take her to your local emergency clinic or vet ASAP.

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

  • Image profile

    Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

    Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

    Published on February 10th, 2020

    Hi there. There can be many reasons for vaginal bleeding, so it's hard to say what might be causing this without more information. If the spay surgery was recent (within the past week or two), then it's likely that this is simply a side effect of surgery, which happens in some dogs and normally resolves on its own. If it's been longer than that, then an ovarian remnant is possible, but so are lots of other things such as a vaginal tumor or infection, a UTI or bladder stones, or even something like a systemic bleeding disorder. Without more information, the best advice I can give is to call your regular vet and let them know what's going on, and see what they suggest - they may recommend an exam as a starting point to help figure out what's going on.

    Vote icon

    37Pet Parents found this answer helpful

  • Image profile

    Answered By Andrea M. Brodie, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on February 23rd, 2018

    It is possible that there is some residual bloody discharge from the operation, however this should stop within an hour or two. This should also not be frank blood, but usually is more a reddish transparent discharge. If Princess is actually bleeding from her vagina , ie if there is a lot of blood staining, then you should take her back to your vet for an exam. Look at her gums and if they look very pale, then it is an emergency. So, yes, please call your veterinarian.

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why is my mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and has pus?
Is your mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and pussy? Dr. Melanie, a certified vet, discusses severe eye issues like infection or abscess, urging an immediate visit.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?
Is your dog's dry skin a concern? A certified vet offers expert advice on finding the best fish-based dog food alternatives to Science Diet for essential oils.
Updated on February 04, 2026
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet is breathing hard, not eating, and lethargic. What's wrong?
Is your rat breathing heavily, won't eat, and has no energy? A Licensed Vet Tech explains potential causes like infection and age, urging a vet visit for diagnosis.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet has red spots all over. What's causing them and what to do?
See red spots on your pet? A certified Petco vet discusses common causes like allergies, infections, or mites, guiding you on diagnosis and treatment options.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My small pet is limping and can't bear weight. Should I see a vet?
Is your pet limping and can't bear weight? A certified vet explains why a suspected fracture needs immediate diagnosis and safe pain relief. Get expert guidance.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My dwarf hamster has a shut eye and is limping. What should I do?
Is your dwarf hamster struggling with eye issues or limping? A trusted vet offers expert guidance on symptoms and crucial next steps for comfort and care.
Updated on December 04, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored