Homecare
Instructions:
The
Post-Operative/Post-Anesthesia/Post-Sedation Patient
During your pets convalescence your pet will need special
care. Please watch your pet carefully to avoid problems.
1. Offer ice cubes initially for about 2 hours and then give
water in ¼ to ½ cup amounts (depending on your pets size) until
your pet no longer drinks it at all. When thirst is quenched
return to the usual free choice water.
2. Offer only a small amount of pet's usual food, about one
quarter of the usual amount about 2 hours after returning
home, if acting and moving normally. Feed small amounts
again two to eight hours later. By the next day you may
feed normally.
3. If skin surgery has been performed, do not let your pet lick
or scratch incisions. Notice how the surgery site looks
when you pick your pet up from the hospital. If your pet does
start to lick or scratch, wrap the area (using a handkerchief, dish
towel, stretchy T-shirt, sock, etc.) and call us. If your pet
has shown any tendency to lick or chew at sores or incisions,
please ask us for an E-collar.
4. Restrict exercises to all post anesthesia patients.
Increased activity may delay healing and increase the
likelihood of complications. Remember, your pet will be
convalescing for approximately 7 to 14 days.
5. The effects of sedatives and tranquilizers can last for a few
hours to a few days. Variations occur due to age, amount of
body fat and metabolism, just as in people. If your pet seems
sleepy or disoriented, protect him/her from falling off furniture,
down stairs, etc. Be sure your pet is in a quiet place, away
from the activities of the household, and keep young children away
until your pet is back to normal.
6. If an emergency develops after-hours, call the Texas
Animal Medical Center (emergency clinic at 254-753-0901), 4900
Steinbeck Bend Drive, Waco, Texas. Report
immediately anything that does not seem normal to you: swelling,
tenderness, lethargy, poor appetite, bleeding, etc.
7. In the case of extractions or oral surgery, a slight tinge of
blood in the water bowl after drinking water may be expected.
If in doubt, give us a call!
Your recheck appointment is:
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Sutures to be removed: No Yes, if yes, date:
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