Post-surgical Complications in Spayed Dogs Explained

Spaying a dog, also known as ovariohysterectomy, involves surgically removing the ovaries and usually the uterus to prevent breeding and eliminate heat cycles. This procedure is common in veterinary practices across the UK, with many vets performing thousands of spays over their careers. Despite its routine nature, spaying is a major abdominal surgery and calls for attentive aftercare.

While complications are uncommon when performed by experienced vets and followed by proper home care, owners should be vigilant for potential post-surgical issues. Early detection and swift veterinary attention can prevent serious problems and ensure a smooth recovery for your dog.

Common Post-surgical Complications in Spayed Dogs

Here are some of the most reported complications, their signs, and what you should do if you notice them:

1. Loose Stitches and Self-Inflicted Trauma

After surgery, your vet will likely provide a puppies buster collar (cone) to prevent your dog from licking or scratching the incision site. If your dog bothers the wound excessively, stitches can loosen or fall out, causing the incision to open or scar improperly.

What to do: Keep the buster collar on as directed and check the incision twice daily for redness, swelling, or opening. Prevent your dog from irritating the wound to protect proper healing.

2. Infection

Infection can develop at the incision site, usually presenting as increasing redness, warmth, swelling, pain, pus discharge, or a foul smell. Though mild redness is normal during healing, worsening symptoms need urgent veterinary assessment.

Signs to watch for:

• Incision turning bright red or swollen
• Warm or painful to touch
• Pus or yellowish discharge
• Foul odour from the wound
• Lethargy or loss of appetite

If you observe these signs, contact your vet promptly to prevent systemic infection.

3. Abscesses and Seromas

Fluid-filled lumps (seromas) or abscesses (infected pus-filled areas) may form under or around the stitches, causing raised or lumpy skin.

What you might see: Soft or firm lumps near the incision, sometimes warm or tender.

Action: Notify your vet if lumps persist, enlarge, or are associated with discharge or pain.

4. Herniation

A hernia occurs when internal stitches in the abdominal wall fail, allowing fat or organs to protrude through the weakened area. This is a serious complication requiring immediate care.

Signs include: A bulge near or under the incision, persistent swelling, or discomfort.

If you notice any unusual protrusions or lumps beneath the skin, seek veterinary evaluation immediately.

5. Constipation and Urinary Issues

It's common for spayed bitches to experience mild constipation following surgery due to anaesthesia and reduced mobility. They may go 1-3 days without a bowel movement.

Tips to Help: Encourage gentle exercise and keep your dog hydrated. Monitor their toilet habits closely.

If your dog goes more than three days without defecating or shows signs of discomfort, contact your vet. Also, if you notice new urinary incontinence or dribbling, seek veterinary advice.

6. Ovarian Remnant Syndrome

In rare cases, residual ovarian tissue remains after surgery, causing the dog to display signs of heat despite being spayed.

Signs include: Swelling of the vulva, behavioural changes, or vaginal discharge.

This condition requires veterinary investigation and possibly further surgery.

7. Anesthetic and Other Rare Complications

While rare, complications related to anaesthesia can arise during or immediately after surgery, including adverse reactions or trouble waking up.

Other uncommon issues include accidental damage to nearby organs or urinary structures.

Close observation post-surgery and following your vet’s instructions minimise risks.

Ensuring a Safe Recovery: Owner Responsibilities

As most spayed dogs go home the same day, pet owners play a crucial role in monitoring and caring for their dog throughout recovery.

• Use and maintain the buster collar as advised
• Keep the dog calm and limit strenuous activity for 7-10 days
• Inspect the incision multiple times daily
• Administer any prescribed medication exactly as directed
• Contact your vet immediately if you see signs of infection, herniation, or unusual behaviour

Good aftercare significantly lowers the risk of complications and promotes healing.

When to Call the Vet

If your dog shows any of the following, seek veterinary advice without delay:

• Persistent or worsening swelling, redness, or discharge from the incision
• Lethargy lasting more than 48 hours post-surgery
• Loss of appetite or refusal to eat for more than one day
• Persistent vomiting or diarrhoea beyond 24 hours
• Visible protrusions or lumps near the surgical site
• Signs of intense pain such as whining, shaking, or hiding

Timely intervention can prevent serious illness and improve outcomes.

Final Thoughts

Spaying is a highly safe and routine procedure that benefits your dog’s health and prevents unwanted litters. Though complications are rare, being informed about possible signs and following your vet’s aftercare guidance is essential. Responsible ownership ensures your spayed dog recovers swiftly and comfortably, allowing her to enjoy many happy, healthy years with you.