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Is my dog's neuter incision infected? He licked it through the cone.

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Male | neutered | 6 months and 7 days old | 14.6 lbs

just wanted to know if this incision was normal or if it got infected. keela has a cone on but i’m afraid he was able to lick it at night while i was sleeping. he’s able to lick even with the cone on, it’s just more difficult for him.

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3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Ana M, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on April 17th, 2020

Thank you for submitting your question regarding Keela. The incision site appears intact. The redness and bruising mainly seems to involve the surrounding skin. It is unlikely infected at this time, but I worry that it will become so if he continues to lick. I recommend trying a larger size collar on him so that he cannot access the surgical site. I hope this information helps!

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on March 6th, 2020

    No need to apologize for the pictures! It doesn't look infected to me. There is some redness on the scrotum, but that can be normal. I don't think there is anything to be very concerned about in the picture.

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on June 28th, 2022

    Thank you for the picture of Choppa's incision, it's very helpful. It may be he licked the area a bit, and it's irritated, but it doesn't look too bad. At this point in time, I would not be worried. In the picture, the incision does not look infected, but I would keep an eye on the area twice daily. If the incision appears open, the skin around the incision is red, swollen, or warm to the touch, and/or there is pus, he needs to see a vet immediately. He would also need to see a vet if he is lethargic and has a change in appetite. I hope this helps.

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    3Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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