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Why is my dog's neuter incision hard with stitches still visible?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Beagle | Male | neutered | 1 year and 4 months old | 19 lbs

My dog was neutered on Oct 6 with dissolvable stitches. On Oct 16 they removed some of the stitches that "the body was rejecting". Now, Oct 31, it looks like there are still some stitches left. Additionally, the entire raised area feels hard underneath like there could be stitches left in there

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on October 31st, 2023

Hello, thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. Neuter incisions are closed with two layers of stitches. Your vet only removed the outer layer of stitches. The inside layer is never removed and will eventually dissolve. There is still a chance he is having a suture reaction to the inside layer. Typically this will resolve on its own over time with no treatment. Occasionally, if the issue doesn't resolve, a second surgery must be done to remove the old "inside" stitches and replace them with a different type of suture material. I suggest you keep a cone collar on Cosmo until the issue is completely resolved. If he licks this area too much this will cause a severe problem, a possible infection and he may even open the incision. I don't recommend you put anything on the incision. It's best to leave it be. If the swelling gets worse, or there is discharge from the incision then he definitely needs to go back to the vet. If Cosmo is very uncomfortable then you may also want to take him back to the vet so they can prescribe an anti-inflammatory for him. Hope this helps. Best wishes.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Hello, customer service emailed me your photo. Based on this photo I would not be worried at all. The incision looks fine. Just continue to monitor that area and if you notice any discharge, redness or the incision opens up then take him back to the vet. I am not worried about he the incision being firm. jThere are stitches inside and he may be having a minor reaction to it. Do not apply anything topically to the incision.

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