What to Expect After Your Pet’s Spay/Neuter Surgery

Spaying or neutering your pet is a big step toward a healthier, happier life—and it’s completely normal to feel a little nervous about what comes next. Whether your dog or cat has just had surgery or you're planning, knowing what to expect can make the recovery process smoother for both of you.

At Creature Comforts, we’re here to guide you through your pet’s post-op journey with care, clarity, and plenty of cuddles.

When your pet wakes up from anesthesia, they may be groggy, sleepy, or a little disoriented. This is totally normal and usually wears off within 12–24 hours.

What you'll likely notice:

• Drowsiness or slower movements
• Glassy eyes or whining
• Mild appetite loss on the first night

💡 Tip: Let your pet rest in a quiet, cozy space and keep things calm and low-stress.

It’s common for pets to eat less than usual for the first day or two after surgery. Offer a small meal the evening they come home, unless your vet gives other instructions.

Watch for:

• Skipping 1–2 meals is okay
• Persistent vomiting or refusal to eat for 48+ hours is not—call us if this happens

💧 Always provide fresh water and encourage gentle hydration.

Your pet will have a small incision on the belly for females or near the groin for males. Most clinics use dissolvable stitches under the skin, but it’s still important to keep the area clean and dry.

Do:

• Check the site daily for redness, swelling, or discharge
• Prevent licking by using a recovery cone or medical shirt
• Keep the area dry—no baths for 10–14 days

🚫 Avoid: Letting your pet lick or chew the incision—it can cause infection or open the wound.

Spay/neuter surgery can lead to some temporary (and some long-term) behavioral shifts.

Short-term:

• Sleepiness
• Mild grumpiness or clinginess
• Less interest in food or play

Long-term benefits:

• Reduced roaming, mounting, or marking (especially in males)
• Lower risk of hormone-related cancers and infections
• A calmer, more content pet overall

While most recoveries go smoothly, give us a call if you notice:

• Bleeding, swelling, or pus at the incision site
• Refusal to eat or drink for more than 2 days
• Labored breathing or lethargy that worsens
• Persistent vomiting or diarrhea
• Your pet seems in significant pain (whining, shaking, not moving)

👉 We’re always happy to answer questions—no concern is too small.