Laceration Repair in Pets

Lacerations are open wounds caused by trauma such as bites, sharp objects, accidents, or rough play. Because these wounds expose underlying tissue, prompt veterinary care is important to reduce the risk of infection, promote proper healing, and minimize long-term complications.

How We Treat Lacerations
 Every laceration is different. The treatment plan depends on the size, depth, location, and level of contamination of the wound, as well as your pet’s comfort and overall health. Sedation or Anesthesia
  • Mild to moderate wounds may be repaired under sedation
  • More severe or painful wounds require general anesthesia to ensure your pet’s safety, comfort, and precise wound repair.
 The Procedure
 During a laceration repair, we will:
  • Carefully clip and clean the surrounding area
  • Thoroughly flush and assess the wound
  • Remove damaged or contaminated tissue if needed
  • Close the wound using sutures or staples when appropriate
In some cases, a surgical drain may be placed. Drains help prevent fluid buildup and reduce the risk of infection in deeper or more complex wounds.

Aftercare and Going Home
 Most pets are able to go home the same day after their laceration repair.

Your pet will be sent home with:
  • Pain medication to keep them comfortable
  • Antibiotics to help prevent or treat infection
 Drains
  • If a drain is placed, it will typically be removed in 4–5 days
  • Drain removal can be performed by our hospital or your primary care veterinarian (GP)
  • If you notice some discharge coming from the drain, this is normal
 Sutures or Staples
  • Sutures or staples usually need to be removed in 12–14 days
  • A recheck appointment will be needed to ensure the wound is healing properly

Home Care Instructions

Proper home care is critical to successful healing:

  • Keep the incision clean and dry at all times
  • Do not bathe your pet or allow swimming until cleared by a veterinarian
  • Prevent licking, chewing, or scratching the area
  • Your pet must wear an E-collar (cone) at all times when you are not actively watching them

Even brief licking can cause sutures to fail or introduce infection.

When to Contact Us or Your GP

Contact a veterinarian right away if you notice:

  • Increased swelling, redness, or discharge
  • A foul odor from the wound
  • Bleeding that does not stop
  • Sutures coming loose or a wound opening
  • Lethargy, fever, or loss of appetite

Our Goal

Our goal with laceration repair is to restore comfort, promote healing, and help your pet return to normal activity as safely and quickly as possible. If you have questions about your pet’s wound or recovery, please don’t hesitate to reach out—we’re here to help.