How Long to Care for a Dog After Stitches Are Removed?
Post-surgical recovery in dogs doesn’t end when stitches are removed. Although this typically happens around 10–14 days after the operation, continued care is essential to ensure your pet’s incision heals completely without complications. Here’s a comprehensive guide to properly care for your dog after the stitches are taken out.
Understanding the Healing Timeline
- Inflammation Phase: This begins immediately after surgery. Some redness or slight discharge is normal during the first 24 hours.
- Repair Phase: Occurs from days 4 to 6. New tissue begins forming, and the site typically lightens in color with minimal scabbing.
- Maturation Phase: This can last for several weeks. Scar tissue forms and strengthens, and fur regrowth may take up to three months.
Typical Stitch Types and Timeline
- Absorbable Stitches: Internal and do not require removal unless complications arise. Continue monitoring for signs of irritation.
- Non-Absorbable Stitches: Must be removed by a vet within 10–14 days. After removal, the healing process continues externally.
- Surgical Staples: Also removed in 10–14 days. Monitoring post-removal is crucial to ensure skin closure.
- Suture Glue: No removal needed; falls off in 7–10 days. Still requires observation for signs of infection.
Care Instructions After Stitch Removal
- Limit Activity: Even after suture removal, your dog should avoid running, jumping, or rough play for another 3–5 days to reduce strain on the incision area.
- E-Collar Use: Continue using the Elizabethan collar for several days post-removal to prevent licking that might reopen the wound.
- Incision Monitoring: Check the area at least twice daily for changes in color, swelling, or discharge. Photographic comparisons can help spot subtle issues.
- No Moisture: Keep the incision clean and dry—avoid bathing, swimming, or using topical products unless your vet instructs otherwise.
- Medication Compliance: If your dog is still on pain relievers or antibiotics, continue administering them as prescribed until the regimen is complete.
Signs of Healthy Healing
- Edges of incision touching and dry
- Mild bruising or redness early on
- Minor clear or blood-tinged discharge within the first 24 hours (normal)
Warning Signs to Watch For
- Persistent or increasing redness or swelling
- Thick, colored discharge indicating infection
- Gaping or reopening of the incision
- Visible pain, appetite loss, vomiting, or lethargy
- Suture reactions such as firm bumps or prolonged inflammation
General Aftercare Recommendations
- Don’t let your dog access gated areas or stairs unsupervised
- Ensure a comfortable, quiet sleeping spot
- Use pet-specific surgical wear if the E-collar isn’t tolerated
- Don’t leave your pet unattended with other animals that may lick or damage the wound
- Follow any vet-prescribed aftercare and readjust treatment based on follow-up visits
While the critical healing period is usually over within 14 days, vigilance for another 3–7 days post-stitch removal supports full recovery. Always consult with your veterinarian if you notice anything unusual or have concerns about your dog’s behavior, incision site appearance, or recovery progress.
