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My dog's neuter stitches have a red spot. Is it normal or call vet?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Male | neutered | 6 months and 9 days old | 20 lbs

Hello, my dog is about 6 months old and he was just neutered on Tuesday. He has been wearing the cone during all times in which he is not under my direct supervision. However, I noticed a red spot near his stiches after the surgery and it seems to be becoming more apparent. Is this normal? Or do I need to take him to the vet. Thank you

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Dr. Macartney, BVet Med, MRCVS

Answered By Dr. Macartney, BVet Med, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Published on August 24th, 2017

The red discoloured area seems to only be a bruise in the skin. I would not be very concerned and it should go away on its own. Just like with bruises on our skin, though they are healing they can sometimes appear larger or darker first.

Issues to watch out for which would indicate a problem and a need to return to the veterinarian;

Swelling
Redness which is getting much larger or darker very quickly
Redness at the incision site
Discharge
Bleeding
Foul order
Pain behaviours - hiding, lack of interest in food
Fever
Vomiting or dirrhoea
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Related Answers from Veterinarians

  • Answered By Claudia Fioravanti

    Veterinarian

    Published on April 28th, 2019

    Yes, this is absolutely normal. The wound looks very good for being just done 2 days ago. Continue to make sure that he does not lick the area, as times go by the wound dries up and itchiness increases and he could still cause some trauma to it. Hope all continues to go well, thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach !

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    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

  • Answered By Laura Johnson VMD

    Veterinarian

    Published on June 9th, 2018

    Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!

    I would remove the visible suture or have your Vet do it. The bumps are a suture reaction to the stitches under the skin. I recommend warm compressing the area twice daily. The suture takes several months to resolve. If the bumps start to ooze yellow discharge he should be seen for antibiotics.

    I wish you and Bailey the best!

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    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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