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Why is there a yellow lump on my dog's surgery wound? Is it normal?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Staffordshire Bull Terrier | Female | unspayed | 9 years and 4 months old

My dog had surgery 10 days ago and she still had the stitches in. I've noticed the wound is starting to scab over. But near the middle of the wound there is a slightly yellowish mound of something. What is this? It's soft to touch and appears to be attached. I don't want to pull it in case it hurts or causes damage. Is it normal? Can get to vets as it's not open till Monday. Any advice or help? I

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Lauren Jones VMD

Veterinarian

Published on September 1st, 2017

Scab formation as surgical incisions heal is quite normal. As for the yellowish tissue that you are seeing from the middle of the incision, this could be fibrin-rich tissue as a part of normal healing, or could be purulent (pus-like) discharge associated with infection. If an incisional infection is present, I would also expect Ellie's incision to be red and/or inflamed. If you do see signs that could be consistent with infection, try to find a vet to take Ellie to this weekend since antibiotics may be necessary. If there is no redness or inflammation, and Ellie is otherwise eating, drinking, and acting normally, you can continue to monitor this incision closely at home through the weekend. If you are not already doing so, be sure to keep an e-collar (cone) on Ellie at all times until her sutures are removed so that she cannot lick the incision, introducing infection or even inadvertently removing her sutures. I hope this helps and that all goes well!

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