Lump Removal Aftercare
Your pet has undergone a lump removal procedure. Prior to the surgical procedure, they received a full examination by their veterinarian and will have had bloodwork done if requested.
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About the procedure
This surgical procedure involves your pets lump/s being removed under general anaesthetic, and may be sent off for testing if you wish to do so. The incision has been closed with sutures, and possibly a drain, which will need to be removed (3 -5 days for drain removal/10 -14 days for suture removal, post surgery). Recovery is generally 7-14 days; however, this may differ between patients. All procedures include IVFT (intravenous fluid therapy).
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Aftercare
When you collect your pet, they may be quite sleepy following their anaesthetic and procedure. You may offer them a small meal after they have settled in at home. We recommend offering about 1/3 of the size of their usual dinner. Do not be concerned if your pet does not show interest in their food on the first night after their procedure; the main reason they may not be interested in food is possible nausea from the anaesthetic, and/or drowsiness.
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We do recommend keeping your pet quiet over the next 7-14 days to prevent issues with the surgical site, and/or complications with recovery. It is best to avoid them being too active during recovery. Dogs should be taken on controlled, short leash walks for the first 7 days/cats should be confined if necessary. The incision sites need to be checked daily and monitored for any abnormal changes (such as redness, swelling or discharge), and also needs to be kept dry so, no baths or swimming for at least 10 days.
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If fluid begins to accumulate under the skin (also known medically as a seroma), give the clinic a call, and we will be able to advise on how to manage this. Usually the treatment is minimal, if any, but please let us know if this occurs.
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There are sutures, and possibly a drain, to be removed. As advised by your vet, please call reception to make a recheck/suture removal booking.
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Your pet will have been given medications during their stay at our clinic, and may have take home medications which a nurse will have discussed with you during discharge. If you have any questions about medication, please do no hesitate to contact the clinic and ask.
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When to contact the clinic:
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The surgical site becomes quite red, swollen or is bleeding (a very small amount of blood is ok).
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Your pet is overly lethargic, vomiting, or reluctant to eat by the following day.
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You feel your pet may be in pain.
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Your pet is licking/chewing at their surgical site.
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If you have any questions about medications.
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If you have any other concerns.
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Take away points
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Please offer a small amount of food (1/3 of their usual meal size) the night of the procedure.
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Do not be concerned if your pet is not interested in food on the first night.
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There may be sutures and/or a drain to be removed.
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Your pet may be prescribed additional medication for you to give at home.
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Keep your pet in a warm environment.
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Please keep your pet quiet during the recovery period.
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Check the surgical site daily.
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No baths or swimming for 10 days.