Dog spay incision draining pus: How long is this normal after surgery?

Question

Harley got spayed last Wednesday (6 days ago). On Sunday we noticed signs of an infection at the incision site so we rushed her to the vet. They gave us antibiotics and since then the swelling and redness has gone down. She also seems in much better spirits. In the last 24 hours a hole has developed at the base of the incision and is draining puss/light pink fluid. How long will it continue to drain and when should be we worried? The hole has also gotten a big bigger since yesterday. Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Female | spayed | 6 months and 11 days old | 40 lbs

Andrea M. Brodie, DVM · Accepted Answer

The fact that there is a hole now and pus is draining is actually good. All the dead cells from the infection need to be purged, and that is happening now. This should not take longer than three days, and then the hole should heal and the reddening should go away as well as the swelling. Should the the hole get much bigger, or the discharge turn greenish or smelly and the skin not lose the swelling and redness by Friday, I suggest you take Harley back to your vet on Friday. Make sure she cannot lick the incision as this introduces new bacteria and keeps it from healing.

Dog spay incision draining pus: How long is this normal after surgery?

Most Helpful Answer

Related Questions

Why is my mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and has pus?

My pet is breathing hard, not eating, and lethargic. What's wrong?

My pet has red spots all over. What's causing them and what to do?

My small pet is limping and can't bear weight. Should I see a vet?

My dwarf hamster has a shut eye and is limping. What should I do?

My degu lost teeth after an accident. How can I feed him soft foods?

Share