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My puppy's neuter stitches haven't dissolved after 3 weeks. Normal?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Male | neutered | 50 lbs

My puppy got neutered about 3 weeks ago and had dissolvable stitches. He still has one stitch that has yet to fall out, is this something to be concerned about?

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Karly Macon, DVM, MS, CVA Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

Veterinarian

Published on July 27th, 2017

No, it will slowly dissolve and disappear with time. Some sutures can last for months at a time, so don't worry! If it seems to be irritating his skin, you can have your vet cut it out if you like. Hope that helps!

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Rodrigo Roca, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on January 29th, 2019
Hello, I hope Scooby is recovering smoothly. You wont be able to see when the suture material has been fully dissolved. The material will get dissolved by the body at different rates and depending on which type of material. For example, Monocryl will take about 3-4 weeks to dissolve, whereas, PDS may take up to 12 weeks. Other suture material may take longer or shorter but you would not be able to tell from the outside.

As long as Scooby is acting like his normal self, is not licking or itching at the area, we allow the body and the suture to dissolve at its own pace as it does not tend to cause any side effects or complications.

Hope this helps and best of luck.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA
Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer
Published on April 2nd, 2020
Absorbable sutures may take several weeks to fall out, so as long as they're not bothering him, I wouldn't be concerned about this. They will fall out eventually. :)

If you think they're causing him irritation or discomfort, then you can take him back in and have your veterinarian remove them.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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