'I'm a vet - never make this mistake if your pet has a surgery'
When our pets fall ill, it can be a heart-wrenching experience, as they truly feel like part of the family. While veterinary care often involves surgery to address health issues, the road to recovery also relies heavily on the care and attention from pet owners.
To assist owners during this crucial healing period, veterinarian Maria, based in Spain, recently shared insights on TikTok, addressing a common misconception about pet care, Express reported. She emphasised that allowing pets to lick their wounds does more harm than good. “Never let your dog or cat lick a wound or stitches after surgery. It’s not going to make it heal sooner; that’s a myth,” she cautioned her 569,000 followers.
Maria explained that licking can lead to inflammation, ulceration, and even infection of the wound. To prevent this, she recommended using protective gear, saying, “Put on a necklace, a bodysuit, a bandage or whatever it takes to keep it from licking.” This advice is vital for ensuring a smooth recovery for our furry friends.
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The clip quickly gained traction, racking up over 4,000 likes as viewers flooded the comments section with their experiences. One user shared, “My vet recommended putting a shirt on him so he doesn't lick himself, and it works very well.”
Another commenter chimed in, stating, "I'm a veterinarian, and I happened to be careless with my dog, but everything was fine. He healed well."
In contrast, a third viewer expressed their frustration with the myth that licking wounds is beneficial, responding with a series of eye-rolling emojis. The engaging discussion highlights the importance of accurate information when it comes to pet care.
What to do after your pet has surgery
After your pet undergoes surgery, ensuring proper post-operative care is crucial for a smooth recovery. Here are some essential steps to follow:
Follow the vet's instructions: Your veterinarian will provide specific post-operative care guidelines tailored to your pet and their procedure. Adhere to these instructions carefully.
Manage pain and medications: Administer prescribed medications precisely as directed. Never skip doses, and avoid giving human medications unless explicitly advised by your vet.
Monitor your pet: Keep an eye out for signs of pain, such as whining, restlessness, or a decreased appetite. If your pet seems unusually uncomfortable, contact your vet promptly.
Prevent access to incisions: Use a cone, protective coat, or any other device recommended by your vet to prevent your pet from reaching their incisions. This reduces the risk of infection or reopening wounds.
Provide a safe and calm environment: Limit your pet's activity, even if they appear energetic. Excessive movement can hinder healing or reopen incisions. If advised, confine them to a small area, such as a room or crate.
Watch for complications: Keep an eye out for concerning signs like swelling, bleeding, discharge, unusual lethargy, vomiting, diarrhoea, or difficulty urinating and defecating. Contact your vet if you notice any of these symptoms.
Book a follow-up appointment: Schedule a check-up with your vet to ensure your pet's recovery is progressing as expected.
By following these steps, you can help your furry friend heal comfortably and return to their usual self in no time.
