Why does my dog have an irritated belly patch and swelling after spay?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Dog | German Shepherd | Female | spayed | 4 years and 3 months old | 65 lbs
My dog was spayed on 8/25. On 8/31 she was lethargic and had swelling and was diagnosed with a stump granuloma. She was treated with antibiotics and steroids and seems to feel great but has developed a very irritated patch on her belly. First photo was taken 9/14 and other two are today. There is a lot of swelling under the nipple but I assume that is from her chewing at it.Wondering if this is just a superficial skin condition or possibly something internal and more serious caused by the spay?
3 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on September 16th, 2020
From the pictures, it looks like skin irritation, and I don't think it's caused by something more serious such as from the spay. If Stella is chewing at the area, that certainly can be causing it to get worse. I am concerned about infection in that area, and she does need to see a vet to have this treated. I'd take her into a vet today or tomorrow. I hope this helps!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
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Published on July 5th, 2017
She may be having an allergic reaction to some of the sutures breaking down or another allergic reaction from an environmental cause on her abdomen. Since she is scratching so much, she has potential to create an infection. It is best to let your vet look at the area and see if she needs antibiotics or something stronger for the scratching and find out what caused it.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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Published on December 16th, 2017
Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! It appears the bumps are possibly at the location of her spay incision. If she was spayed recently, in the last few months, the bumps are likely a suture reaction. There are suture under the skin that take months to break down. Some animals can have a reaction to the suture as it breaks down that looks very much like that. I would start warm compressing it twice daily. I would advise having your Vet take a look at her to determine if the swelling is infected and needs antibiotics. A lot of times it is a sterile reaction. You can apply a triple antibiotic ointment to the area as well. I hope this helps and I wish you and Carmen the best!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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