My dog is lethargic and not peeing after spay surgery. Is this normal?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Hi - we adopted Luna yesterday. She was spayed last Wednesday and has been very lethargic since. She has been using the bathroom infrequently. The last time she peed was Tuesday and last poop was yesterday morning (averaging 1 pee every 2 days and 1 poop a day). She has no interest bring outside and just wants to sleep. The rescue organisation gave us meds for her - 150mg of doxycycline twice a day. She seems to be doing much worse after the meds. Photos of wound attached. Is this all normal??

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Answered By Dr. Davis 176

Veterinarian

Published on April 5th, 2018

The incision looks normal. Her behavior is not. I recommend a recheck exam. She could be painful or could have a urinary infection. If the doxycycline is causing a stomach upset they may be able to switch antibiotics. They can put her on pain medication also to make her more comfortable. I recommend feeding wet food with added water in it so she doesn't get dehydrated. Again most dogs are back to normal in a day or two after the surgery so please bring her in for a recheck to make sure there is no complication. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to help you care for Luna.

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My dog is lethargic and not peeing after spay surgery. Is this normal?

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