Vet surgery is performed on pets to treat an illness or after an injury. For instance, it can be done to remove foreign objects or tumours, repair torn ligaments and also fix broken lacerations or bones. While types of vet surgeries may vary, one thing remains constant: The surgeon has needs to cut into the pet's skin to access the affected area.
If your pet has undergone surgery recently, you are required to ensure that the healing surgical site doesn't get infected until it heals completely. An infection can occur when you allow pathogens to get to the healing surgical site. For this reason, you need to follow all the care tips the vet surgery expert will offer to make sure that your pet's wound heals well and sooner. So, how can you know if your pet wound is infected? Read on to know more.
Swelling of the incision
One of the common problems most pet owners face after surgery is incisional swelling. While it's okay for the incision area to swell a bit as the body starts healing because cells and fluid accumulate in this area, you should worry if the swelling is excessive. In most cases, too much swelling is a sign of tissue reaction or infection and can occur when the suture layers get untied, or the body tissues react to the suture material. To avoid further complications, it's always advisable to get the swollen incision checked out by the vet right away. You cannot assume your pet has recovered until the incision heals completely. Under normal circumstances, incisions heal in one or two weeks.
Protruding tissue on the cut
Have you noticed that there is protruding tissue in the infection area? The sutures are meant to keep the underlying tissues in and hold the edges in place so the cut can heal fast. But when stitches break down, tissues in the area may protrude. This can easily cause serious infections that could be deadly if nothing is done right away. If you notice this problem, be sure to cover it with a clean towel, then take your pet to the clinic right away since emergency treatment is required.
Discharge from the incision area
It's normal to notice some blood-tinged fluid in the incision area immediately after surgery. This is often noticed when you place a dry tissue or paper towel on the healing wound. However, the fluid should never drip from the area of the cut. If you notice any discharge or blood, be sure to place a temporary bandage and report the matter to the veterinarian right away.