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Is my dog's spay incision healing okay? It has a lump and leaks.

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Australian Shepherd | Female | spayed | 28 lbs

Wanted to see if my dog’s spay incision seems to be healing okay. The small opening at the end has me concerned. It leaks a clear fluid and I have also noticed a lump under the incision in that area (somewhat noticeable in the photo). She seems happy, not in pain, and is eating well. She was spayed 12 days ago.

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4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr Stafford, BVetMed, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Published on April 5th, 2020

Layla's wound looks to be healing nicely. It looks like she is having a mild suture reaction at the very end, likely where the suture is knotted. This is not uncommon and often a little lump forms which then bursts open and sometimes you will see some suture poke out. I would usually recommend going into the vet as often the piece of suture can be pulled out. However given the current circumstances I would keep it clean at home as long as she seems her normal self and there is no pus.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Penelope Graben, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on November 11th, 2020

    Hello, Suzzy's spay incision appears to be healing beautifully. The lump you are feeling is where a knot in the suture is tied, and scar tissue forms around this during healing. This is a normal part of healing from a surgery done well. From the photos her incision is clean, not reddened, swollen, or draining fluid. Those would be signs of an infection that would require a recheck exam. Please continue with Suzzy's normal post operative care and rest, as well as ensuring she does not lick at the incision. I hope that helps! Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!

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    Answered By Tomasz Wnuk

    Veterinarian

    Published on July 24th, 2021

    Hello and thank you for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. A few drops of clear liquid leaking from the incision is normal for healing wounds. As long as the wound is not open, does not feel tender or hot to touch and Nova is doing OK there is no need to worry. You should clean the wound with boiled, warm water and cotton buds to make sure the incision stays closed and does not get infected. It should be fully healed soon.

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on December 13th, 2018

    Yes, it does look like it's healing well. The bump could be a seroma (a pocket of fluid) or a reaction to internal skin sutures. The vet can check that out when you bring Pebbles in to have her sutures removed. Best of luck.

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