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Dog anal gland surgery: Not draining, eating, or pooping. Neosporin?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Male | unneutered | 12 lbs

My almost three-year-old male shitzu and morkie mix had anal gland surgery Wednesday night. They said that it would continue to drain but it hasn't done much since first night and he still hasn't gone to the bathroom. just a little yesterday morning and he is not eating much. Just resting. should I be concerned that it's not draining more than that? I have been putting warm compresses on it about 3 times a day am I able to put Neosporin or something else on it to help protect the area.

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Sara Farmer, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on April 19th, 2019

I wouldn’t be too worried about a lack of drainage unless you’re also noticing significant swelling around the surgery site. Neosporin is probably okay to use but it would be best to check with your vet first before applying it. It can take some dogs 3 days or more to have a bowel movement after surgery, but if Bubba seems to be straining to defecate you should see your vet. If his appetite does not improve in the next day or two you should also contact your vet.

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