How many days should a dog wear a surgical suit?

After surgery, it’s natural for pet owners to have questions about post-operative care — especially when it comes to using a surgical suit. This piece of clothing is an important ally: it helps protect the incision, prevents the dog from licking or biting the stitches, and helps keep the surgical area clean. But how long, exactly, should a dog wear the suit?

The surgical suit should be kept on for 10 to 14 days after the surgery.

After surgery, it’s natural for pet owners to have questions about post-operative care — especially when it comes to the use of a surgical suit. This piece of clothing is an important ally in protecting the incision, preventing the animal from licking or biting the stitches, and keeping the surgical site clean.But how long, exactly, should a dog wear the suit?

The answer depends mainly on the type of surgery performed, the dog’s individual healing process, and the guidance of the attending veterinarian. In general, the recommended average duration for using the surgical suit is 10 to 14 days — the period during which tissues typically heal safely and stitches are removed.

However, in orthopedic surgeries or cases of delayed healing, this period may be longer — up to 21 days or more, especially if it’s necessary to prevent any contact with the operated area.

It’s important to observe the dog’s behavior during this period. If the dog continues trying to lick or scratch the wound, continued use of the surgical suit becomes even more necessary.

On the other hand, if the healing is progressing well — with no signs of inflammation or discharge — and the dog shows no interest in the area, the veterinarian may approve early removal of the suit before the standard timeframe.

Another important factor is ensuring that the suit remains clean and properly fitted. Suits that are too tight may cause discomfort or even impair circulation, while loose suits may not adequately protect the area. It’s also advisable to remove the suit briefly under supervision to check the incision and allow the skin to breathe — as long as this does not jeopardize the healing process.

Veterinary supervision is essential throughout. The suit should never be removed prematurely without professional advice, especially if stitches or scabs are still visible in the surgical area. Complications such as infection, suture dehiscence, or self-trauma can occur if the dog gains access to the wound too soon.

In summary, although the average period is 10 to 14 days, each case should be evaluated individually. Ongoing communication with your vet, careful observation of the dog’s behavior, and monitoring the healing process are the best ways to determine when it’s safe to remove the surgical suit.

For dogs that have been neutered, the ideal garment fully covers the abdominal area and prevents the pet from licking the stitches. One model that works very well is this surgical suit with velcro closure and breathable fabric, which offers comfort, protection, and ease when putting it on or taking it off. Click the image below to view the product on Amazon.

Surgical garment for neutering and abdominal procedures. Sizes 00 to 14.

References

Fossum, T. W. (2019). Small Animal Surgery. 5th Edition. Elsevier.– Pavletic, M. M. (2010). Atlas of Small Animal Wound Management and Reconstructive Surgery. 3rd Edition. Wiley-Blackwell.