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Dog abscess drained: site hard, pus from tubes. Is this normal?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Boston Terrier | Female | 20 lbs

My dog got an abscess drained 2 days ago and has drain tubes but now the sight of the abscess is hard and I think pus is coming out of the tubes. Is this normal?

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3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jenna Beyer, DVM, MBA, cVMA

Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

Published on April 23rd, 2020

I don't think that it being hard is normal for an abscess, but this appears to be a very large abscess. You should call your vet to discuss this new finding, as they may have some insight depending on the suspected cause and the exam findings. The purpose of the drains is to allow the fluid to be released as the wound is healing. If they weren't there and the hole your vet created closed up, then all of that fluid would be trapped under the skin and it would re-abscess.

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    Answered By Dr. Paula Simons

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    It is hard to say from the photos, but it might not be a bad idea to have Maddie rechecked. She should be on appropriate antibiotics and pain medication during this time. I worry that it looks like she still has an ongoing infection.

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    Answered By David Darvishian

    Veterinarian

    Published on August 7th, 2017

    Hi and thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Sorry to hear that Layla is having this problem. Not sure if a drain(s) were placed but it sounds like the vet felt like they weren't needed. If the abscess is swelled back up I can only assume that it needs to be drained, explored, and drain(s) placed to enhance drainage and allow healing to take place. It's possible there is a foreign body in there causing problems. I would advise going back to your vet or going to another vet in the area if you wanted to get a second opinion. I wish you good luck.

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