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Why is my dog's spay incision swollen and hard 4 days after surgery?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Female | unspayed | 1 year and 8 months old | 39 lbs

My dog was spayed 4 days ago and she is doing really well. She is eating, drinking water, peeing, pooping, walking and also shows interest in playing and going for a walk. Her wound looks good it has not bleed at all, its not red the only problem is i think it looks a bit swallen on one side and its a bit hard to the touch. I am gonna take her to the vet but i just want to hear your opinion and know if you think it looks normal and if not how are things like that usually treated. Thank you

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Linda G, MS, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on July 18th, 2018

Hello. There is definitely more swelling on the one side, but the skin looks very good, no redness or drainage. It is always best to let your vet take a look, but there does not appear to be anything serious going on & other than possibly applying a warm compress, I doubt any treatment will be necessary at this time. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

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    Answered By Tomasz Wnuk

    Veterinarian

    Published on August 23rd, 2020

    Hello and thank you for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. The mild swelling around the stitches is most likely due to normal healing process. As long as the wound is not discharging, is not hot or painful to touch and your Bailey is acting normal and has good appetite, you should monitor her at home. You should clean the wound twice daily with antiseptic skin solution, for example 4% chlorhexidine. However, if you notice that the wound is discharging or your Bailey looks unwell, you should take her to your local vets for an appointment.

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