Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

My cat just got spayed. Should I stop her from licking the incision?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed | 5 months and 26 days old

Hello! My cat was spayed yesterday, is it ok for her to lick the incision? I will attach photos of the incision. She licks it from time to time, but I'm not sure as to whether I should stop her or not.

This question includes photos that may contain sensitive content. Click to view.

View more to consider that the photos may include sensitive content.

4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Dr. Massimo Orioles, DVM, Cert AVP, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Published on October 27th, 2018

The incision looks healing normally even though there is a slight muscle reaction to the stitches (normal as well). Licking is not good as could lead to infections and delay in the healing process. Buster collar is useful to avoid any licking. Hope this answer was helpful, but please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on February 28th, 2017

    Forrest Gump needs to stop licking her incision or she will cause infection in the area and breakdown of the incision. It doesn't look like from the picture that it is infected, but that doesn't mean it couldn't become infected. She needs to be wearing an Ecollar at all times, and if she didn't come home from the vet's clinic with one, you will need to make one at home to stop her from licking the incision. You can also get one from a pet store. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8ffR-LzyW1M

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

  • Image profile

    Answered By Daniel Fonza, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on February 8th, 2018

    Hi there and thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to address your concern. I would agree and say that this does not appear to be concerning. However, the incision does appear red and irritated. I would recommend using the plastic cone (in a new size that fits her) and see how she does with that to help prevent her from licking at the incision site. I would also consider having her on a course of an oral antibiotic to help prevent this incision from becoming infected. I hope this helps! Please let me know if you have any other questions or concerns and I would be more than happy to help you further.

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

  • Image profile

    Answered By Lauren Jones VMD

    Veterinarian

    Published on August 4th, 2017

    It does look as though Boo has caused some redness and irritation to her incision. With licking, there is a chance that her incision may become infected. Definitely keep the ecollar on her at all times for the next 10-14 days. Closely monitor her incision at home for now, but if the redness continues or worsens, the incision seems swollen, or has any discharge, Boo should go to her vet for evaluation because antibiotics may be needed. I hope that all goes well!

    Vote icon

    2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What to do if my cat has a small hole with pus coming from its ear?
Is your cat's ear hole oozing pus? A Petco vet explains potential infections like abscesses from bites, advising immediate vet care, antibiotics, and recovery.
Updated on September 23, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My male dog's penis is stuck out and his scrotum has a painful rash.
Is your 11-year-old male dog experiencing a painful penis or rash? A certified vet explains potential paraphimosis urgency and why immediate care is vital.
Updated on September 23, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
My cat is chunky. What food and steps can I take to help him lose weight?
Is your cat overweight? A certified vet offers guidance to help your tubby tabby lose weight. Get essential diet and food recommendations to slim down your cat!
Updated on September 23, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Cat sick and still has fleas after vinegar treatment. What now?
Cat still scratching and not eating after vinegar flea treatment? A certified vet reveals why it fails and offers effective solutions for your cat and home.
Updated on September 23, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My kitten had ringworm. Vet says in blood, untreatable, no meds?
Confused about your 6-month-old kitten's ringworm diagnosis, oral meds, or vaccinations? A trusted vet offers a second opinion on your pet's health concerns.
Updated on September 23, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My cat has a weepy wound she keeps licking. Does it need stitches?
Is your cat's weepy wound concerning you? A certified vet offers guidance on home care, when to disinfect, and signs to watch for before seeking professional help.
Updated on September 23, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored