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My dog's neuter incision is red again 6 days later. Is it infected?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Boxer | Male | neutered | 10 months and 6 days old | 60 lbs

My dog got neutered 6 days ago. The healing seemed to be going well and everything was turning to normal color. But now this morning an area is red again. Is it infected?

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Ricardo Fernandez, DVM

Veterinarian, Veterinary Oncology Resident

Published on July 3rd, 2019

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! While this may represent an infection, this is not definitive just based on inflammation. This may just be part of the healing process and may mean that he was able to lick at his surgical incision. I would encourage you to prevent him from licking at his incision at least until 14 days post-surgery to ensure healing. If it worsens, does not improve or you see any discharge, I would recommend you check in with your veterinarian to ensure at that point that there is no infection going on. At this point however, I think it would be fine to monitor it. Have a great day! I hope this improves and he is fine!

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Other Answers

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

    Veterinarian

    Published on August 4th, 2021

    The site is still inflammation but there are no signs of infection. The wound seems healing fine otherwise. I would recommend to restrict the exercise and keep the buster collar on to avoid any licking.

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