03 Jan Caring for Your Pet After Oral Surgery
Oral surgery, especially dental extractions, is common in dogs and cats. After surgery, your Veterinary DentistTM will give you instructions specific to your pet and their procedure after surgery, but many pet owners have questions to expect about surgical recovery. Here are some common oral surgery aftercare instructions for your pet. Always listen to your veterinarian’s recommendations regarding your pet.
What should my pet eat after surgery?
When you first get home after surgery, your pet may be inclined to drink excessively, which can cause vomiting. We recommend you wait 15-30 minutes after you arrive home to offer a small amount of water (1/4 cup to 1 cup). Allow 15-30 minutes after drinking. If there is no vomiting, you may offer additional water, then about half a ration for the evening meal. Your pet may not feel like eating on the night of surgery. This is not abnormal. However, if they are still refusing food and water by morning, you should contact your veterinarian.
Dogs and cats should eat a softened diet for 14 days after surgery if they’ve had extractions. You may offer canned food, or you may soak regular kibble in warm water for 20 minutes prior to feeding. Additionally, please avoid giving chews or toys over those two weeks. After 14 days, you may go back to feeding regular hard food, and you may start home dental care!
Will my pet need medication after surgery?
Most pets will go home after surgery with pain medication, such as a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory pain medication like carprofen, meloxicam, or onsior, or an opioid like buprenorphine or gabapentin. Antibiotics are not usually recommended but may be needed in some situations. Other medications like anti-nausea medications or sedatives may be recommended in certain cases.
How do I know if my pet is in pain after surgery?
Your pet’s mouth will be numbed prior to surgery, and they will be on appropriate pain medication so they should not be in pain. It is always prudent, however, to monitor your pet closely for indications of pain following oral surgery. Should your pet show these signs beyond 24 hours, please contact your veterinarian. Signs to be aware of if your pet is in pain:
- Loss of normal behavior, i.e.: decreased ambulation or activity, lethargic attitude, decreased appetite, or decrease in grooming (especially cats)
- Expression of abnormal behavior, i.e.: inappropriate elimination, vocalization, aggression, decreased interaction with other pets or family members, altered facial expressions, altered posture, restlessness, or hiding (especially cats)
- Reaction to touch, i.e.: increased body tension or flinching in response to gentle touch.
- Changes in physiological parameters, i.e.: Increase in heart rate, increase in respiratory rate, increase in body temperature, increase in blood pressure, or pupil dilation.
Final Thoughts
Caring for a pet after surgery can be nerve-wracking for those who have never done it before. It is important to follow your veterinarian’s oral surgery aftercare instructions for your pet and to reach out without hesitation with any questions or concerns. Remember that you know your pet best, and it is never wrong to reach out if something feels amiss. Your furry best friend will be back on their feet and feeling great in no time!
Images used under creative commons license – commercial use (01/03/2025) Image by Fran • @mallorcadogphotography from Pixabay