How to Care for Dissolvable Stitches After Spaying

How to Care for Dissolvable Stitches After Spaying. Dissolvable stitches, or sutures, do not require a follow-up appointment for removal. Enzymes within the body or a reaction to bodily fluids dissolve the stitches over several weeks. According to PetEducation.com, "The material is actually passed sideways through the layer of skin, so it is not visible once the closure is complete." Therefore, the pet is less likely to tear them when they scratch, bite or pick at them. Incisions closed with absorbable stitches still require monitoring and care to ensure a speedy recovery from spay surgery. Dogs, cats and rodents require similar post-operative cautions and care.

Things Needed

• Elizabethan collar
• Pet crate

Step 1

Avoid bathing your pet for 10 days following spay surgery. Immersion in water and chemicals may cause the stitches to dissolve too quickly. Rather, wet a clean cloth and remove debris or dirt from a pet's face or paws when needed.

Step 2

Fit a dog with an Elizabethan collar if they begin to lick the incision site. Even though absorbable stitches seldom open, licking can still cause irritation and saliva aids the deterioration process of the sutures. Alternately, distract the dog with grooming or other low energy activities.

Step 3

Prevent strenuous play to prevent incision tears. Keep cats indoors. Walk dogs on a leash when they are outdoors. Crate your pet to restrict running and jumping when they are unattended.

Step 4

Monitor the incision site for infection or swelling. A hard bump at the incision site is normal, but irritated red skin or drainage may be a sign of infection. Schedule an appointment with your veterinarian.

Warnings

• Elizabethan collars are also referred to as e-collars.

References

• National Health Service: How Long Will Stitches Take to Dissolve?
• ASPCA: Spay-Neuter
• PetEducation.com: Incisions and Healing in Animals