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My dog's spay incision is red and scabby after a week. Is it normal?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | English Mastiff | Female | spayed | 2 years old | 150 lbs

Lina had a spay/gastropexy one week ago. The incision today looks more red/scabby. Just making sure this is normal. The photos are in order of earliest to present

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on June 19th, 2020

Thank you for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach with your question about Lina. Unfortunately only one picture is attached, and I think it may be the earliest picture given your description in the question. If the incision looks more red and scabby, that suggests infection. I would have her seen by a vet first thing in the morning to get it checked out to be safe. I hope this helps!

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Just noticed the end of her incision has started to scab and it’s a little red, should we get it checked or just let it heal on it’s own? The stitch on that area has been removed already a few days ago. She doesn’t bother it either.
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Hi, thanks for using Boop by Petco! Lena needs to have an examination by a veterinarian as soon as you can to ensure the incision remains closed. In the picture, it appears there is some inflammation next to the incision. This is likely due to irritation to the area, and she may be licking at the incision and making the inflammation worst. If she is licking it, it could even cause infection or make an existing infection worse. I would recommend an Elizabethan collar to be fitted on Lena to make sure she is not able to lick the area until fully healed. The lack of appetite is very concerning which makes her case in more urgent need of attention by a veterinarian. It may be nothing serious yet, but it is better to get on top of these things early to keep them from becoming a larger issue. Hope this helps and that Lena gets better!
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Hello. Thanks for the very good picture. The incision does look a little puffy, but I do not see this as an emergency. I would apply a warm compress twice daily for 10 minutes & see how it looks on Monday. Even though her surgery was 2 weeks ago, the underlying muscle is still trying to heal & she may be experiencing a suture reaction. As long as there is no discharge from the incision, either bloody or clear, she should be fine, but do try to curtail her activity , especially jumping on furniture, running up & down stairs, etc. to not put more stress on the incision until you can have her seen. I do hope all is well & thanks for contacting Boop by Petco.
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