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Why is there a bump on my dog's spay incision? Is it normal?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Female | spayed | 2 years and 2 months old | 55 lbs

I have a ~2 year old golden mix who was spayed on December 22nd, 2016. Today I was petting her belly and noticed a quarter sized, smooth, round bump underneath the very tip of her scar from her spay. My dog has been herself, playful, peeing, pooping, and eating normally. The bump does not appear to cause her any pain or discomfort, nor is it red or hot to the touch. I plan on calling my regular vet tomorrow to book a checkup, but as a worrier I was hoping for sooner answers.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on February 16th, 2017

I can certainly understand being worried about Addy, and we are here to help! This bump could be scar tissue from the spay or it could be a retained internal suture that hasn't dissolved fully. There are three layers of sutures used to close the spay incision, two of which are internal, and it can take longer for them to fully dissolve. It's good that the bump doesn't appear to cause her any pain or discomfort, nor is it red and warm to the touch. Given that she isn't having any abnormal symptoms, I would be more inclined to think it's scar tissue or an undissolved suture. I do think it's a good idea to have Addy checked out by the vet to be safe, but I certainly hope I've put your mind at ease tonight :-)

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    I can't say for sure but it sounds like this may be a delayed suture reaction. Delayed suture reactions can occur for up to 3 months post surgery because the internal sutures can take that long to completely dissolve. We usually only treat these if the skin has actually opened up or if the reaction is severe. However most pets do well and completely heal within 1-2 weeks time. Your vet should be able to confirm this and treat her if needed. Usually a short course of anti-inflammatory medication and/or antihistamines is given to calm things down. Best of luck with Addy, I hope she heals up soon!

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