Should I Be Concerned About My Dog’s Swelling and Eye Changes Post-Spaying?

Dear VetBabble,

I had my dog spayed five days ago, and since she’s been home, her face has become increasingly swollen each day. Her eyes also look different than usual. While she has been eating and drinking fine, I’m concerned about her swelling and eyes. Should I take her back to the vet to be checked, and what could be causing these issues?

Understanding Post-Surgery Swelling in Dogs

Dear Pet Owner,

First of all, it is important to remember that some swelling and inflammation around the surgical area are normal within the first few days of recovery from the desexing procedure. However, the swelling you mentioned is on your dog’s face and impacting her eyes, which is not a typical post-spaying reaction. It is always better to err on the side of caution and take your dog back to the veterinarian for a thorough examination and evaluation. They can determine if the swelling and eye changes are related to the surgery or if there’s an underlying condition that needs to be addressed.

Possible Causes for Facial Swelling and Eye Issues in Dogs

While there are several potential causes for the swelling in your dog’s face, we’ll cover three general categories that may be a concern:

1. Allergic Reactions: Dogs, just like humans, can experience allergic reactions to certain medications or materials used during surgery. For example, your dog may be having an allergic reaction to the sutures, anesthesia, or any antibiotic medications administered during her spaying procedure. In this case, your veterinarian will likely examine your dog for signs of an allergic reaction and may prescribe medications like antihistamines and steroids to reduce swelling and inflammation.

1. Infection: If your dog’s surgical wound becomes infected, it can cause swelling and inflammation on her face or eyes. You can monitor the surgical site for any excessive redness, discharge, or foul odors that can indicate an infection. Additionally, keep an eye on your dog’s behavior: lethargy, appetite loss, or excessive licking of the surgical area can signal an infection. Check out this helpful article, “How to Treat your Dog’s Wounds at Home,” for guidance on proper wound care and signs of infection.

1. Unrelated Eye Conditions: It’s also possible that the swelling and eye changes you’ve observed are unrelated to the spaying procedure itself. If your dog had an underlying eye problem before the surgery, she may still be experiencing some discomfort. Dogs can develop various eye conditions, some of which manifest as swelling or changes in appearance. Check out our article on “Common Eye Conditions in Dogs,” for more information on possible causes and signs to look out for.

Returning to the Vet and Moving Forward

Given the concerns you’ve mentioned, it is essential to return to the veterinarian as soon as possible. They can thoroughly examine your dog and determine if her swelling and eye changes are related to the spaying surgery or if there’s another issue at play. Your vet will be able to guide you on the appropriate course of action and provide the necessary care to ensure your dog’s well-being.

As a pet owner, it’s essential to educate yourself on various health topics to provide the best care for your beloved companions. For example, if you’re interested in learning more about canine reproduction and ways to prevent it, you can visit our page on “Pregnancy in Dogs.” You can also learn about the benefits of desexing and what it entails in the article titled, “Desexing Your Dog.”

Your pet’s health and well-being are our top priority, and we’re here to provide you with the information and guidance you need. Remember, when in doubt, it’s always best to consult with your veterinarian. We wish you and your furry friend the best of luck on her path to recovery and continued health.