Depending on the condition of your pet’s oral health and the symptoms they’re showing, there may come a time when tooth extraction will be necessary. Tooth extraction will be needed when a tooth gets damaged beyond repair or has significant decay that should be removed to prevent spreading to other teeth and causing infections. The aftercare needs and healing time of every dog following their oral surgery will vary depending on their condition and the size of teeth extracted.
If your pet is due for a tooth extraction a few days or weeks from now, we’ll tackle several guidelines for providing proper care when you take them home after their surgery.
How to Care for Your Pet Following a Dental Surgery
Some pets might not show symptoms of oral discomfort after an extensive dental procedure, especially if their drive to eat is great. However, this doesn’t mean they don’t require aftercare. Regardless of any surgical procedure, your furry family member will depend on you to take care of them until they recuperate fully.
So we’ve gathered five tips to guarantee your pet’s swift recovery after dental surgery.
1. Give Medications Prescribed by the Veterinarian
Pets who have their tooth extracted are administered anti-inflammatory injections for pain relief. The vet will also provide additional medications for ongoing pain relief at home. It’s important to give medications exactly as prescribed by your veterinarian, to prevent underdosing and overdosing., Also, do not hesitate to call them if you’re having difficulties administering the medications.
2. Feed Them Chunky Meat or Soft Foods
Before you head home after your pet’s surgery, discuss postoperative feedings with the veterinarian. Depending on the procedure, the veterinarian may recommend soft or wet foods and prohibit hard kibbles until the surgical site has fully healed. This may take several days or upon the vet dentist’s specific directions on when your pet can return to its regular diet. You may browse their website to learn more about their veterinary dental services.
3. Ensure Your Pet Gets Enough Rest
Prepare a safe, quiet, and comfortable space for your furry friend to rest undisturbed following the surgery. Your pet should recuperate from the anesthesia within a few hours, although it often takes 12-24 hours to fully recover. Your pet may seem sleepy, disoriented, or lacking in appetite during this time, so be proactive in assisting them and providing their needs that are easy to reach for them. If your animal companion stays like this after 24 hours, call the veterinarian immediately.
4. Inquire if Postoperative Checkup is Necessary
After the pet neuter procedure, ask the vet surgeon if a postoperative checkup will be needed. If the vet confirms, book the postoperative follow-up appointment before taking your pet home.
5. Routinely Look For Indications of Complications
Even when your pet returns to its normal diet and routine, it’s still important to look out for any signs of issues that may occur after an extraction. Call your veterinarian for advice if you see the following symptoms:
- Foul-smelling breath (Halitosis)
- Excessive drooling
- Swelling or bleeding around the wound area
- Disinterest in favorite chew toys
- Dropping food while eating
- Showing aggression when touching their face
However, if you observe serious signs like frequent urination, sudden weight loss, rapid heartbeat, or shallow breathing, you might need to have your pet checked by a dog internist in Toledo. Conditions like reproductive issues, digestive disorders, tumors, heart problems, and other chronic diseases will require the attention of professionals specializing in veterinary internal medicine. Veterinary internists are trained in handling and diagnosing advanced internal medicine disorders to help pets live their best lives despite their serious condition.
Final Thoughts
Although many pets don’t experience many problems following dental procedures or extractions, they can use some rest and tender loving care from their pet owners to ensure they recuperate well. Your love, attention, and care for your pet make a huge difference in their swift recovery. Do not hesitate to contact the veterinary dentist when your pet shows alarming symptoms while recuperating. Extra attention to detail during their healing process can prevent further complications.
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