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Puppy neuter incision opened with discharge. Does it need stitches?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered | 7 months and 7 days old | 34.4 lbs

My puppy incision opened up after neutering. Vet gave antibiotics. Will he need stitches again? How long does it take for him to cure? What is the process when incision opens. He does have yellow discharge.

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Tomasz Wnuk

Veterinarian

Published on June 27th, 2021

Hello and thank you for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. - I don't think the wound will need to be re-stitched. It looks on the picture you posted that the opening is very small. This should heal without stitching. - It takes 10-12 days for incision wound to fully heal up. However, if there is wound infection or the wound opens up, the healing process may take a few days longer. - The incision usually opens up as a result of licking the wound. It also can be caused by jumping, running or any excessive exercising. - Please, talk to your vet about the yellow discharge from the wound. Caesar may need an antiseptic cream or ointment on top of antibiotics treatment.

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    Answered By Andrea M. Brodie, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on August 5th, 2018

    As long as it does not bleed, have a purulent (pussy) discharge, and just a serous discharge, no reddening and no swelling, there is nothing to worry about. THis should not open any further. If it does or if any of the signs described appear you should take Skipper for a recheck. Leave the cone on until it is completely healed. THis should be healed within the next 7 days. If the incision is not healed by then, again, you should take Skipper to your vet for a recheck.

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