My dog's spay incision is red and scabbing. Does it need vet care?

Thank you for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach with your question about Lina. Unfortunately only one picture is attached, and I think it may be the earliest picture given your description in the question. If the incision looks more red and scabby, that suggests infection. I would have her seen by a vet first thing in the morning to get it checked out to be safe. I hope this helps!

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! The only thing I can't tell from the picture is if the skin is together at the red area. If it is then I think it is fine. The red area appears to be a scab or dried blood that will likely heal. Just be sure she isn't licking the incision (use an E-collar or T-shirt) and that you are keeping her exercise restricted (no running, jumping, stairs and leash walks outside only). Good luck!

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Panda's spay incision does appear to be red and a little swollen. Swelling at a spay site can be due to a variety of reasons, including infection, inflammation from a reaction to the suture material, or over-activity after her procedure, among others. I would recommend Panda be seen by her regular veterinarian to have the swelling evaluated, and start any medications (antibiotic, anti-inflammatory) that she may need. In the meantime, I would recommend icing the area as well. Good luck!

Hello and welcome to Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. The incision looks inflammed, but this could be part of the normal healing process. If there is any discharge, OR if the wound looked better than this previously and is now looking MORE red than say Friday or Saturday, I would take her back to the vet right away. If it is steadily looking better, and she is eating, drinking, pooping and peeing normally, then you can continue to monitor it. Best of luck with Lilo.

Based on what I can see in these photos, the incisions appear to be healing. Occasionally there is dried blood from surgery, but sometimes it can bleed a little after surgery, especially if the dog is too active. I recommend monitoring for increasing bleeding, swelling, heat, or licking of the area and seek veterinary attention if you notice any changes. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

That looks like she has a skin infection and that could affect her incision. I suggest getting her back in to see the vet as soon as possible for an exam and probably antibiotics or some other medication to help her heal quicker.

Hello, thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. The incision is healing beautifully. I would not be concerned with the scabbing as it's just a normal part of healing. It is best to leave it alone - don't apply anything on it. Definitely leave the E-collar on a for a few more days minimum. We always tell people to leave it on for 10-14 days post-operatively and it always better to go more towards the 14 days mark. Hope this helps. Best wishes.