Preparing the Home Before Surgery
For patients scheduled at our Tatlıkuyu, Gebze clinic across Darıca, Çayırova and Kocaeli, the fasting window follows clinician instructions, with water available until two hours before surgery. Lining the carrier with a clean towel, gentle warmth and a quiet room at home all ease recovery.
If the litter tray has high sides, a low-sided alternative is prepared, and in dogs access to stairs and furniture is restricted. A small tracking sheet for medication times is a practical solution.
- 8 to 12 hour fast, water available until two hours before
- Clean carrier and a quiet room
- Low-sided litter tray and non-slip flooring
The First 24 Hours and Wound Care
Body temperature can drop during recovery; shivering, feeling cold or persistent drowsiness warrants a call to the clinic. The first meal starts with water and a small portion of food, increased gradually if there is no nausea.
The incision is inspected once a day without touching it. Redness, discharge, foul odour, swelling or suture separation means attending the clinic without delay. A protective collar or surgical suit is used to prevent licking.
Clinical Tools
Use the clinical tools to support home monitoring decisions; the symptom triage tool helps separate urgent from routine signs.
Related Medical Departments & Clinical Procedures
| Timing | What to Check | What to Do |
|---|---|---|
| First 6 hours | Breathing, alertness, body temperature | Quiet environment, warmth support |
| First 24 hours | Urination, appetite, incision line | Water and small meals |
| Days 2 – 7 | Incision colour, swelling, pain signs | Medication timing, short walks |
| Days 7 – 14 | Suture integrity, weight | Recheck appointment, activity restriction |
| After day 14 | General condition and weight trend | Gradual increase in activity |
Clinical Pathway
- A safe resting area is prepared at home before the procedure.
- Medication instructions and the recheck date are noted at discharge.
- Temperature, appetite and urination are monitored for the first 24 hours.
- Wound checks and activity restriction continue for 14 days.
Frequently Asked Questions
When can I feed my pet after surgery?
Water can be offered 2 to 3 hours after discharge, followed by a small amount of food. If nausea or vomiting occurs, reduce the portion and contact the clinic.
Should the protective collar stay on overnight?
Yes if the risk of licking is high. Make sure the collar does not press on the neck and that the animal can eat comfortably.
Do the sutures need removing?
It depends on the suture type. Internal sutures need no removal, while skin sutures are removed at the recheck between days 7 and 14.
The information on this page is for general guidance and does not replace a physical examination.