If you just got your dog back from the vet after surgery, you may be worried about them chewing on their stitches. Dogs have a natural instinct to chew on things and this can cause problems with their sutures.
In this article, we will discuss some tips that can help prevent your dog from chewing on their stitches. No matter the types of sutures, be sure you keep these things in mind.
Keep Your Dog’s Mouth Clean
One of the best ways to prevent your dog from chewing on their stitches is to keep their mouth clean. This means brushing their teeth regularly and using a doggy toothpaste. You should also make sure to give them dental chew toys to help keep their teeth clean and healthy.
Use an Elizabethan Collar
An Elizabethan collar, also known as an ‘E-collar’ or ‘cone,’ is a plastic or fabric cone that goes around your dog’s neck. It prevents them from being able to reach their stitches with their mouth. E-collars can be uncomfortable for some dogs, so it’s important to make sure that your dog gets used to wearing one.
Keep Your Dog Occupied
Another way to prevent your dog from chewing on their stitches is to keep them occupied. This can be done by giving them toys, going for walks or playing games with them. Keeping your dog’s mind off of their stitches will help prevent them from wanting to chew on them.
Give Them Something Else to Chew On
If you are worried about your dog chewing on their stitches, you can give them something else to chew on. This could be a chew toy, a rawhide bone or a piece of rope. Giving your dog something else to chew on will help redirect their chewing instinct away from their stitches.
Talk to Your Vet
If you are still concerned about your dog chewing on their stitches, you should talk to your vet. They may be able to prescribe a medication that will help prevent your dog from wanting to chew on their stitches.
Check Their Stitches Regularly
As your dog heals, it’s important to check their stitches regularly. This will help ensure that they are healing properly and not at risk for infection.
Try an Anti-Chew Spray
There are also anti-chew sprays that you can use to help deter your dog from chewing on their stitches. These sprays usually contain bitter flavours that dogs don’t like. You can find anti-chew sprays in most pet stores, both physical and online.
Be Patient
Finally, it’s important to be patient with your dog. They are healing from surgery and it will take time for them to adjust. With a little patience and care, your dog will be back to their normal self in no time.
We hope that these tips have helped you prevent your dog from chewing on their stitches. If you have any questions or concerns, make sure to reach out to your veterinarian.
Do you have any tips for preventing dogs from chewing on their stitches? Share them in the comments below!