Itchy Sutures

[Bonnie Barber]

Hi, I am new to this group, having joined about a year ago while searching for a doodle to adopt. I never found one, but I did adopt a sweet Standard Poodle... Half of a doodle, lol. Anyway, I have found great value in continuing as a member of DoodleKisses. I have received an excellent education here.

On to the topic at hand. Sweet Allie had extensive surgery two days ago and had about 7 fatty tumors removed as well as two cysts. She has a huge E-collar, but we remove it when we are with her. The itching has begun and she is uncomfortable. The collar may need to be on her 24/7 now.

What can we do to relieve the itching? I have seen people recommend neosporin, benedryl, warm or cold compresses. Anything else we can do? She can almost reach her hind end, with the collar on, where there are two rather large sutured areas. I will call the vet when they open and ask their advice. I seem to get blank stares when I ask about homeopathic remedies.

Any help you all may offer would be much appreciated. Photo attached but not sure how this works, if it will come with this message.

Bonnie and Allie Poodle, Butchie ShihTzu, Lucy MaltiPoo

[Karen, Jasper and Jackdoodle]

I personally would ask the vet what you can do to help relieve the itching as the incisions heal. The only thing I can think of would be an anti-itch cortisone spray, and I wouldn't use that without an okay from your vet. Anything greasy like an ointment or cream would have to be bandaged or covered or it will just rub off.  The other thing might be to cover her hind end with shorts or boxers so she can't get at it; but that doesn't do much to relieve her discomfort. 

[Bonnie Barber]

Thanks, Karen! You're always my first go-to person for good info.

[Bonnie Barber]

Thanks! We just returned from our second follow up visit to have new staples put in. The vet gave us a longer collar. I will look into those blow up collars as well.

[Stella]

Was she shaved for the surgery? It might be that the itching is from being shaved so close to the skin, rather than the stitches. In any case, the vet needs to give you something to stop the itch and make her more comfortable. Hope she is feeling better soon.