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Dog licking neuter site, white discharge after cone removal. Infected?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Pembroke Welsh Corgi | Male | neutered | 11 months and 19 days old | 20 lbs

Hi my dog got neutered a few weeks ago and wore a cone for two weeks. His surgery site was normal while he wore the cone. We took off the cone and he's been licking his site a lot and I'm worried that the site is infected/open. There is no serious redness going on but there it looks like there's a small hole and white stuff coming out

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on May 1st, 2017

It is concerning that there is white stuff coming out of Filos' incision, and that could be pus which is a sign of infection. I would put the cone back on him for now, and have him seen by a vet in the morning. If the incision is infected, the vet can prescribe him antibiotics to treat the infection.

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Related Answers from Veterinarians

  • Published on

    The white material could be infection or pus. The neuter site should be completely healed by 10-14 days out from surgery, so since it's been this long I recommend a recheck to see if he needs to be on antibiotics and additional pain medication to alleviate the licking.

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    Answered By Ana M, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on July 1st, 2018

    Thank you for submitting your question regarding Skynrd. The picture came through a little blurry, but he appears to have an infection at the incision site. He will need to see his veterinarian as he may require an antibiotic. Keep the area clean and dry and do not apply any topical ointments. These can irritate the skin further. Try your best to keep the cone on him to prevent any further trauma. There are also inflatable neck collars available that may be more comfortable for him and still prevent the licking. I hope this information helps!

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    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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