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Updated on September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Dog | Shih Tzu | Female | spayed | 9 months and 18 days old | 9 lbs
My dog was spayed 4 days ago and her vet is closed for the next week (on vacation). They failed to mention that before operating on my pup. Her incision looked fine this morning, but now I'm noticing some discharge. Does this appear to be infected? Is it safe to but antiobiotic ointment on the incision? She seems to be in pain still especially if you get anywhere near the incision. Any advice would be great...
4 Answers

Answered By Penelope Graben, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on June 23rd, 2018
Answered By Amy S. Eutsey, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on June 23rd, 2018
Hello. I think this incision looks pretty good for 4 days post op. I think you are seeing dried blood and possibly skin glue caked on the incision line. It does not appear infected right now. I would avoid putting any ointment or cream on the incision as this will attract her to lick it. If you see yellow fluid or wet accumulation of oozing fluid at the incision, post a photo again so we can help you evaluate it. If it does start to look worse, topical Neosporin applied 2-3 times a day is fine BUT you should keep an e-collar or “cone” on her to prevent her from licking the ointment. Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Ricardo Fernandez, DVM
Veterinarian, Veterinary Oncology Resident
Published on November 4th, 2018
Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! This looks like an infection at the incision site. This does warrant a visit to your veterinarian. They are likely going to clean it and start antibiotics. This usually responds well to therapy but does need to be treated. Good luck and have a good night!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Stephanie Echols, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on September 2nd, 2017
Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! The incision does look irritated but not infected. You can apply a warm compress to the incision 2-3 times per day until you can get her to the vet. If the discharge looks thicker or white/yellow/green, then its infected. Good luck and kisses to Millie!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful