Recovery Roadmap After Orthopedic Surgery for Your Pet

Has your canine or feline companion recently undergone a major orthopedic operation like ACL/CCL repair, fracture fixation, or amputation? The team at Neighborhood Veterinary Center in Hallandale Beach, FL, understands this can be a stressful recovery period for pet owners monitoring their dog or cat’s healing process at home after surgery. Understanding typical timelines and warning signs can offer peace of mind and make your pet’s recovery smoother. Continue reading to learn more about what to expect after your pet’s orthopedic surgery and how to care for it at home.

Early Surgical Aftercare and Discomfort

In the first 1-2 weeks following orthopedic surgery, significant swelling, bruising, stiffness, and wound sensitivity are standard as your pet emerges from anesthesia and its body mends damaged structures. Cold compresses, administration of prescribed pain medications, confinement or restriction per your veterinarian orders, and assistance with standing or moving are crucial during this fragile period to prevent re-injury as your pet remains sedated and uncoordinated.

You should always use an e-collar and leash when accompanying your pet outside to prevent wound licking. Your pet’s appetite may dip temporarily, but sufficient food and water intake ensures healing nutrition. Contact a vet promptly about concerns like refusal to take medication, eat, drink, urinate, defecate, or other clues that your pet is in distress.

Long-Term Healing Objectives

Some pivotal landmarks in your pet’s rehabilitation and recovery include the removal of stitches around two weeks post-op, transitioning from rigid confinement to supervised activity around 6-8 weeks, and participating in playtime sports by 12 weeks as the surgical site continues to strengthen. Your vet will advise specific pet care and pet wellness tips throughout your pet’s recovery period. Attend all prescribed physical therapy and veterinary care sessions for optimal mobility outcomes. Keep your pet’s incision clean, and call us about redness, swelling, or discharge leaking from the site. These are signs of a potential infection and require prompt veterinary care.

Contact Your Hallandale Beach, FL, Veterinarian to Aid Your Pet’s Recovery

Getting the best possible pet care and pet wellness advice during your pet’s recovery period is vital for ensuring its long-term health and well-being, so contact Neighborhood Veterinary Center in Hallandale Beach, FL, to get your pet the care it needs to continue living a long, healthy life. We provide caring follow-up guidance each step of the way from surgery to rehabilitation, so call us today at (854) 505-3757 to make your pet’s recovery smoother and safer.