Pet Amputation

After Surgery

Immediately after amputation surgery, it is very normal to see swelling and bruising around the incision site. While you may want to allow your pet to be active after surgery, physical activity can cause further swelling, bruising, and bleeding. Please do not allow your pet to overdo it in the first week after surgery, even if they feel up to it.

Minimize drainage from the incision by keeping your pet calm and quiet, such as by putting them in a well-padded crate. No matter where they rest, please be sure it is well-padded for their comfort. If you see drainage from the incision, use a warm, moist washcloth to keep the area clean.

We may place sutures on the outside of the skin. Sometimes, we are able to bury them under the skin. Your discharge instructions will tell you if the sutures need to be removed, but usually, if you can see sutures, they need to be removed in 2 weeks. If you do not see them, they are under the skin and will dissolve on their own.

When your pet arrives home, they will need supervision and support until they can walk on their own. For some pets, this will happen right away. Others may need support for a few days. Stairs may be a challenge at first, so please keep them supervised until they can go up and down with confidence. Smooth floors may pose a challenge, so consider laying down rugs and runners with non-skid pads for your pet.

Keeping their nails clipped short can also help prevent slippage. If extra support is needed, you can purchase a sling in your pet’s size. You can also improvise by using a towel or cutting up a canvas shopping bag with handles. For front-leg amputees, sling the fabric under their chest. For rear-leg amputees, place the sling under their belly. Be sure to stand on the same side as the amputation to act as a counterweight when helping them with a sling.

Your pet will have to adjust how they use the potty by learning to balance differently. They will figure this out quickly, but it may take a few days before you see a bowel movement, as they may hold it for as long as possible while they are learning to adjust. Don’t worry, they will move their bowels when they are ready.

Rest is important for the first few days as their incision heals. After a few days, help them get up and move slowly to keep their muscles strong. Keep your amputee away from other pets until complete recovery, as they will not understand what has happened and may try to play too rough. You can allow them to return to full function after a week or 2 if they can get around on their own with confidence. If your pet enjoys the water, swimming is great physical therapy.