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Is my dog's spay incision healing okay or does it look infected?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Female | 47 lbs

is this spay incision healing properly? or does it look infected? this is my first dog and im not sure what exactly to look for. the dr said a little redness is ok, but to me this looks swollen..please advise if I should take her to the vet. Thanks

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4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on July 3rd, 2017

It is normal to have some redness and a little bit of swelling, and from the picture, Skye's incision looks fine to me. It looks like the incision is healing well, and I would be concerned if the incision was really red and quite swollen. Continue to monitor it, and if the swelling and redness increases, then I would take her into the vet. You can take into the vet if you'd would like just to be sure, and it may give you peace of mind. I hope this helps :-)

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17Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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    Answered By Ricardo Fernandez, DVM

    Veterinarian, Veterinary Oncology Resident

    Published on July 17th, 2018

    Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! While it does not look normal or as it would be expected to heal, it does appear to be healing appropriately just with secondary inflammation. I highly recommend that you consider using an e-collar to try to prevent her from licking at it which can affect healing. If you ever notice any discharge or foul odor, have her evaluated by your veterinarian for further assessment and treatment. Good luck and have a good night!

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    Answered By David Elbeze, DVM, MRCVS

    Veterinarian

    Published on June 19th, 2021

    Hello, it's very possible her body has a reaction to the internal suture material, causing the slight inflammation but it's nothing to worry at that point, it doesn't require antibiotics at the moment and i doubt it will in the future, the incision healing looks fine

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    Answered By Andrea M. Brodie, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on May 6th, 2018

    The spay incision of Eli looks perfect. There will always be a little inflammation at the incision site as it is part of healing. However this reddening should disappear within the next few days and not get bigger. So for now you do not have to worry. Should the incision swell significantly, get very red or ooze fluid or pus, you should take Eli back to your vet for a recheck. Make sure Eli wears her e-collar at all times and does not lick the incision.

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