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My dog's infected stitches: Should I use peroxide to clean them?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

My dog got her stitches out this week on Wednesday. Unfortunately the ones on her stomach became infected. My vet gave me some antibiotics and Betagen topical spray to put on them. Her instructions for the spray were to first clean the incision with peroxide and then use the spray. All my online research says to NEVER use peroxide. My question is what should I do? Should I use the peroxide or just stick to the spray?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Leigh, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on December 10th, 2016

If there is a lot of discharge around the incision, you could use a small amount of peroxide or just some warm water to clean the around the area. You don't want to irritate the incision more so don't rub or pick the discharge/scabs. Then apply the spray as directed. If there isn't a lot of discharge than you could just use the spray as directed.

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