When I got Scooter nuetered (about a month and a half ago), only one of his testicles was descended so it turned out to be a little more indepth than we planned. He had a extra set of stitches and came home with an e-collar like your baby. They also ended up pulling one baby tooth.
As far as the e-collar, I only made him wear it when I was not at home (I work full time but go home at lunch to be with him). When I was home, he didn't really lick or mess with the stitches and if he started to, I would just tell him no and he eventually stopped trying. He was much more comfortable without it and able to sleep. He sleeps in bed with me at night so even though I wasn't watching him all the time, I didn't make him wear it at night. That may not be the best thing as far as vets are concerned but he likes to spread out when he sleeps and can sleep for hours at a time without moving a muscle so I just let him. See how your baby responds but if you are watching them, even the vet will tell you they dont have to wear them....mine did. Scooter had the stitches in for 12 days. Having the stitches removed took maybe 5 minutes and the scar is almost gone.
As far as teeth being pulled, I didn't really notice a difference in the amount of food he ate. Scooter only had one pulled so that could be a factor. He didn't eat the first night but the vet said that was normal. I did give him wet food the next day because he considers that a treat and he loved it.
Make sure to give your baby lots of loving because this is a big bonding period, they need you more than ever.
Good luck. |