Fishy Smell After Neutering

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Last month, I took my pup Dottie to the vet for what I dubbed her “big girl procedure.” My baby was getting spayed. Of course, she pranced into the waiting room like her usual social butterfly self: tail wagging, kissing every last technician and stranger, completely oblivious to the days of recovery ahead. I, on the other hand, was a nervous wreck. And though my vet reassured me that it was a standard procedure, I still felt unprepared for the aftermath.

Theres a lot of conflicting information out there about when a dog should be spayed or neutered, if its even necessary, and how they should be cared for in recovery. But the one thing we can all agree on? Its a major milestone for any pup, and something that all parents should approach feeling prepared. Here are the four things that I wish I had known before my puppy got spayed:

If the smell is yeasty or fishy, this is likely a sign of infection. In the day or two after surgery, you may notice some redness and swelling. If the incision becomes very red or swollen, or gets worse as time goes on, this is a sign of infection.

Signs of Infection After Your Dog Gets Neutered

Fishy Smell After Neutering

Being mindful of possible infections is extremely important after any surgery with your dog. This means taking precautions and being extra observant for the following few weeks after your dog gets surgery.

As mentioned above, if you notice the odor getting progressively worse, it may signify an infection. When bacteria get into the incision, it can cause excessive growth leading to bacterial infections. While this surgery does not have a high risk for infection, it is still something to be mindful of. Continue below for possible signs of infections.

Have your vet shave your dog before surgery

Some vet offices may even shave parts of the dog themselves for better hygiene and easier access if you are worried that your dog’s fur is in the way and couldn’t find time to take them to a groomer. Your vet’s office should have no issue assisting you with this.

Fishy Smell After Neutering

My Female Dog Smells Like A Fish

I have a female dog, and my dog smells like period blood one day. Although female dogs normally have bacterial flora in their vagina, if the foul odor smells better than the fishy smell, it could be a health issue.

A female dog smells like fish, and you notice a light-colored discharge, then your female dog may have vaginitis caused by bacteria or yeast.

FAQ

Why does my dog smell like fish after surgery?

If your dog is emiting a fishy odor, the most likely cause is that the anal glands are impacted and need to be released. The anal sacs are the size of peas and are psoitioned on both side of the inside of your dog’s rectum. These sacs have an oily substance that is released through your dog’s excrement.

Why does my dog smell after getting neutered?

Dog spay/neuter infection symptoms include: Redness around the incision site. Discharge from the incision, particularly if it’s not clear and thin. A foul smell emanating from the incision.

Why does my male dogs privates smell like fish?

Dogs also “express” their anal sacs when they are scared, which is perfectly normal, if a bit odorous. Anal gland secretions have a distinct smell that many people describe as fishy. If your dog smells like fish, chances are there may be something going on with their anal glands.

How do you tell if your dog has an infection after being neutered?

Acute redness, swelling or bruising at the incision site. Bleeding or pus from the incision site. Vomiting or diarrhea longer than 24 hours after the procedure (some immediately after can be normal as a result of anesthesia) The incision site reopens.