Dog Vomiting a Few Days After Surgery – Top 3 Reasons Why

Whether it be 2, 3, or 4 days after surgery, it’s not normal for dogs to throw up post-surgery, especially if it happens more than once. Here are a few reasons why some dogs may do this. If ever in doubt, call the clinic where the dog had the surgical procedure.

1. Vomiting due to pain

Vomiting is a common symptom of intense pain and stress. Some dogs may vomit a few days after surgery once the effects of anesthesia wear off. This can happen after common and complex surgical procedures, including spay or neuter surgery. The effects of anesthesia may typically last anywhere from one to two days.

2. Nausea from medication

Some dogs may vomit a few days after surgery due to the effects of nausea caused by certain types of medication. The ingestion of antibiotics and anti-inflammatory medicines, for example, may lead to stomach upsets which, in turn, results in the vomiting.

3. Eating too quickly

Your dog might not be hungry immediately after a surgery but his hunger will eventually come back once the effects of nausea and anesthesia wears off. The dog might vomit if he eats his meal too quickly or if the initial meals are too rich and makes the dog’s stomach feel unsettled. For the first few days after surgery, a general recommendation is for dogs to be fed light meals that consist of bland foods. This helps the dog ease back to his regular diet.

For how long will a dog throw up after surgery?

This will depend on a number of factors such as the type of surgery and the amount of anesthesia administered. Generally speaking, you could expect the dog to stop throwing up once he recovers from having nausea, which could take up to a few days. Don’t, however, assume vomiting is a normal reaction post-surgery. Call the vet if your dog is showing any unusual signs and behaviors.