How Often Should I Feed My Dog After Surgery?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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Typically speaking, your dog can go up to 24 hours without a meal without any adverse side effects. In fact,

if your dog has had anesthesia, it’s best to wait a few hours

to feed them to ensure the grogginess has completely worn off and they won’t choke.

Should I feed my dog after surgery?

Feed Your Dog Properly


Many dogs will need to eat less in the days after their surgery

. Avoid feeding your dog rich dog foods that could prompt your dog to over eat. Your dog’s veterinarian may recommend feeding your dog something like boiled hamburger meat.

When should my dog start eating and drinking after surgery?

Your pup’s appetite should return

within about 24 hours

. You can then begin to gradually reintroduce their normal food. If it’s been more than 48 hours and your dog still won’t eat after surgery, contact your veterinarian (or vet surgeon if you’ve been referred to one).

How do I feed my dog after stomach surgery?

Why is my dog not eating a week after surgery?


A common side-effect after surgery is not wanting to eat

. Most dogs can typically go a day or two without food without any adverse effects, so if your dog skips a meal or two, it generally doesn’t cause for great concern. After surgery especially, it’s to be expected that your dog may not want to eat his regular food.

Can dogs eat kibble after surgery?

What can I do?

Most pets will not eat their regular dog food after surgery, especially if it is dry kibble

. Try mixing canned dog food into normal diet, or alone for a couple day to enhance flavor. Always remember to gradually switch back into normal diet.

How can I comfort my dog in pain after surgery?

These modalities may include

cold therapy (ice packs), therapeutic laser, acupuncture, and/or massage

. Each surgical patient is unique, so each pain management strategy is fine-tuned to meet the needs of the individual dog. The goal is to keep your dog as comfortable as possible before, during, and after surgery.

How can I get my dog to drink water after surgery?


PLACE WATER DISH AT APPROPRIATE HEIGHT

Keeping the water dish at “head-height” will allow your dog to drink without straining their neck, which should encourage them to drink after surgery.

How can I relax my dog after surgery?

  1. You do the work. When possible, carry your pet up and down stairs, or over any more challenging obstacles. …
  2. Get out the crate. …
  3. Keep your dog on a short leash. …
  4. Skip the walks and playtime. …
  5. No jumping on the furniture. …
  6. A room with a view. …
  7. Exercise for the mind. …
  8. Cuddles, cuddles and more cuddles.

When can I give my dog water after surgery?

The only difference is dogs can usually have water until

early in the morning of the surgery

. Your veterinarian will let you know when he wants water cut off. It can vary according to the weather (if it’s hot he may allow the dog to have water a bit longer) or if the surgery is scheduled for later in the day.

Do dogs get depressed after surgery?


Dogs will often be in a bit of pain or discomfort following a surgery. This alone is enough to trigger mild depression in some pups

. Be sure to talk to your vet if you think your dog is in pain – your vet may be able to prescribe medications to keep your dog more comfortable while he heals.

Do dogs drink more water after surgery?


It’s common for dogs to not drink water right after getting surgery

because they may feel lethargic and weak due to the effects of being sedated. It is, however, important to keep your dog hydrated so here are some steps you could try to encourage your dog to drink a bit more water.

How long does it take a dog to recover from abdominal surgery?

In most cases, soft tissue operations such as spaying, neutering or abdominal surgery recover more quickly than procedures involving the bones, joints and ligaments. Many soft tissue operations have healed about 80% after

2-3 weeks, and may be completely healed in about 6 weeks

.

Does white rice help dogs stomach?

Vets will recommend a bland diet of white rice (with no seasonings or fats) and boiled chicken for dogs with gastrointestinal issues.

White rice is easy to digest and helps their digestive system relax and regain its balance

so your dog can eat their regular kibble again.

Are eggs good for dogs?


Eggs are perfectly safe for dogs

, Eggs are a great source of nutrition for your canine companion. They are high in protein, fatty acids, vitamins, and fatty acids that help support your dog inside and out. Remember that eggs are only as good as the chicken they come from.

What should you feed a recovering dog?

If your dog does not like or tolerate fish, alternative protein sources may include

skinless minced chicken or turkey, scrambled egg, rabbit or venison

. Alternative carbohydrate sources may include well-cooked rice or sweet potato. Well-cooked and cooled rice and potato are both good sources of resistant starches.

Is Tuna good for dogs?


Tuna is not toxic to dogs

, and a tiny amount will not cause mercury poisoning. If you own both a dog and a cat, make sure your pup isn’t eating the feline’s food, as wet cat food often contains tuna. Cats are also susceptible to mercury poisoning, so consider choosing a cat food made with other kinds of fish.

How do you stop a dog on bed rest?

You should stick to the tricks that require the lowest amount of energy while your dog is on bed rest such as

sit, down and leave

. You can also teach them to place their nose on your hand through the crate and reward them with a treat, keeping them on their toes.

Can I add chicken broth to my dogs food?


Chicken broth can be a good addition to your dog’s diet for short-term or routine supplementation

. It can help with dehydration, diarrhea, upset stomach, picky eating, healthy joints, and much more.

Should I sleep with my dog after surgery?


It is not necessary to stay up, or sleep next to your pet

and you can leave your dog alone after surgery for short periods as long as they aren’t likely to lick their stitches. In fact, many dogs will appreciate some quiet time and the opportunity to sleep after the anaesthetic.

Can my dog sleep in a cone?


Yes – dogs can sleep, eat, drink, pee, and poop with a cone on

. In fact, the stricter you are with the cone (officially called an Elizabethan collar or E-collar for short), the quicker your dog will get used to it.

How do I know if my dog is in pain after surgery?


Panting can also be your dogs way of showing you that they are in pain

. It is a good idea to assess your dog for pain if they are persistently panting after surgery. Other signs of pain include hunched posture, vocalization, hiding, reluctance to be held or picked up, uncharacteristic aggression, and restlessness.

Diane Mitchell
Author
Diane Mitchell
Diane Mitchell is an animal lover and trainer with over 15 years of experience working with a variety of animals, including dogs, cats, birds, and horses. She has worked with leading animal welfare organizations. Diane is passionate about promoting responsible pet ownership and educating pet owners on the best practices for training and caring for their furry friends.