Dogs and Cats
Your pet has had an operation today and there are some things you should know about caring for them once they are home. Your pet may be quite tired and sleepy after a general anaesthetic, but should be quite lively by the morning. Please phone the surgery for advice if you are concerned.
FEEDING: After you have settled your pet back at home, feed them about half of what would be their normal daily food. Make sure they have plenty of water available. Do not be too concerned if they are not hungry. If they do not eat in the morning, phone for advice.
STITCHES: If your pet has stitches, it is important that they do not lick or pull at them. They may need to wear a buster/Elizabethan collar to prevent them from doing this. They are often not happy with wearing one of these collars, but it is important that they do. In general, stitches are removed after 10 days. You can book this appointment when you collect your pet. Keep a close watch on your pet’s wound. If you are concerned about any swelling or discharge, please phone for advice.
Cats with stitches should be kept in for at least 48 hours after returning home. Dogs with stitches should have lead exercise only until the stitches are removed.
EXERCISE: After some procedures it may be necessary to restrict exercise. The vet will tell you if this is so. Please ask for advice if you are not certain.
MEDICATION: It is important that your pet finishes his or her medication, if you are having difficulties administering it, please contact the surgery.
BANDAGES: If your pet has a bandage, please make sure you keep it dry. Most bandages will need changing within 2-3 days: the vet will inform you when to come in for a bandage change.
Rabbits and Small Furries
Your pet has had an operation today and there are some things you should know about caring for them once they are home. Your pet should be quite lively, despite having an anaesthetic today, and you should call for advice if you are concerned about their demeanour.
FEEDING: Small mammals, including rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, gerbils, rats and mice, need to eat at a fairly constant rate throughout the day. We offer them food and water right up to the time of the anaesthetic and straight after recovery. It is very important that they eat well in the hours and days following an anaesthetic. Feed them their usual diet and observe their intake carefully. If you think they may not be eating, please call for advice.
WOUNDS: It is important that your pet does not lick or bite at wounds and stitches. This may cause them to break open and need further attention. If you are concerned about this, or if there is a swelling or discharge from a wound, please call for advice.
FAECES: Your pet should be producing normal amounts and consistency of faeces. This is a very important sign that your pet’s digestive system is working well. If there is a reduction or absence of faeces in your pet’s cage, please call for advice.
HOUSING: After some operations it may be necessary to keep your pet separate from others for a period of time. Please ask for advice when you collect your pet.
MEDICATION: It is important that your pet finishes its course of medication. If you are having problems administering it, please let the surgery know.
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