My dog just got neutered and keeps crying

You only want the best for your dog. You likely got them neutered, in part, for their own benefit. However, it can be heartbreaking to hear them cry after getting neutered. 

You may be wondering why your dog is crying, what to do, and when you should worry. 

There are a few reasons your dog may cry after getting neutered. The good news is, this is normal, particularly in the hours after surgery. Understanding why your pooch is crying can help both of you to get through it. 

Anesthesia Disorientation 

It’s common for dogs to cry or whine after surgery due to anesthesia. If you’ve ever undergone anesthesia yourself, you probably remember being disoriented or confused in the hours after you woke up. 

Your dog also experiences this. Unlike us, dogs don’t understand what is going on. They don’t know why they are confused or disoriented, which can make it scarier for them. 

This type of crying should stop within 12 to 24 hours after surgery, as the anesthesia wears off. 

If your pooch is crying due to confusion, you may notice they stop crying when you are nearby or petting them. This is because your presence them makes them feel safe. 

Pain 

The pain from neutering will be the worst the day after surgery. At this point, the anesthesia has worn off, and healing is in its beginning stages. Your pooch should seem a bit better the next day, or two days after surgery. The pain should be completely gone 1 week after surgery. 

If your pooch is in pain, you may notice that they don’t stop crying when you are nearby. 

They may also pant and shake. They may attempt to lick the incision site. On the other hand, your pooch may not groom themselves as they normally do. 

They may also be lethargic or reluctant to get up and move, because it causes them more pain. It’s normal for them to have a reduced appetite and thirst when they are in pain as well. 

Anxiety or Stress 

Stress or anxiety can also cause your pooch to cry after being neutered. Surgery is a very stressful event for a dog. They go to the vet, and they are put to sleep. They wake up confused, with no idea what happened. 

They may realize they are in pain, or have a wound. The anesthesia keeps them disoriented for several hours after surgery. It’s easy to see how they could be very anxious.

This can continue even after the pain has lessened and the anesthesia wears off. Unfortunately, neutering can also cause behavioral changes, including increased fear and anxiety. 

Other signs of anxiety include drooling, excessive barking, pacing, and being destructive. They may also have house accidents. 

Of course, after surgery, some behaviors should be expected. Your pooch may need to use the potty indoors until they are themselves again. Lethargy is normal for the first day or two after surgery. However, other signs are clues that your pooch might have anxiety after netuering. 

Boredom 

Just like humans, dogs get bored. Have you ever found yourself in bed recovering from surgery or illness, feeling like you were losing your mind due to boredom? 

This may be how your dog feels after surgery, and it can cause them to cry or whine. After all, they can’t do their normal activities in the days after surgery. This can be particularly difficult for them if they are high energy, or used to being outside daily.

If your dog is bored, they may lick excessively, chew things they aren’t supposed to, bark excessively, or pace. 

Is it normal for dogs to cry after getting neutered?

Yes, it is normal for a dog to cry after getting neutered. You can expect your dog to cry or whine in the 12 to 24 hours after surgery due to anesthesia. 

They may also cry because they are in pain. However, if your pooch is inconsolable, refuses to eat or drink after surgery, or will not walk or move, it’s a good idea to call your vet. 

In most cases, crying is normal after surgery, but there’s a possibility a complication could be causing your dog pain. 

What to do if my dog keeps crying after getting neutered?

 There are some things you can do if your dog keeps crying after getting enuetered. In some cases, you may need to work with your vet. However, some situations can be handled at home. 

Pain 

If your pooch is in pain after surgery, you may need to speak with your vet. They may have given your dog a long acting pain medication, which typically lasts for 24 hours. 

After this, they may have given you a prescription you can give your dog as needed. 

If they didn’t, contact your vet if your pooch seems to be in pain. If your dog is still in pain after taking the medication, you should also contact your vet. Your dog may need a stronger pain medication, or a check up to be sure there are no complications. 

Disorientation 

If your pooch is disorinet3ed or confused after neutering, it should wear off within 24 hours. In rare cases, the effects can remain for 48 to 72 hours. 

Giving your pooch some water and a snack can help calm the disorientation. Hanging out with your pooch can also ease their mind. Keep them near you and be sure to pet or speak to them frequently to help them stay calm. 

Anxiety or Stress 

If anxiety or stress is the source of your pooch’s cries, you may need to talk to your vet. Some dogs need anxiety medication after surgery. If the anxiety continues in the weeks after surgery, consider speaking to an animal behavioralist. 

Keep the environment as stress free as possible. Allow your pooch to recover in a quiet area, but be sure they are near where you spend the most time. 

Boredom 

It can be a bit tricky to keep your dog occupied when they are recovering. They aren’t supposed to have any strenuous activity, so a rough and tumble play session is off the table. 

However, you can take them for a gentle walk if they are up for it. You can also hide treats around the house, and let your pooch find them. Puzzle feeders can provide mental stimulation as well. 

Lastly, consider turning on the TV. Dogs actually enjoy TV. They particularly enjoy shows with other dogs or animals they consider prey. It’s a great way to keep them occupied when they can’t do their normal activities. 

Don’t Hesitate to Get Help or Advice 

Neutering is a relatively minor procedure. However, there are always potential complications with any surgery.

In addition, every dog is an individual. This means that your dog will react differently to surgery than other dogs who had the same procedure. For some dogs, this means they have an easier recovery than normal. On the other hand, some dogs seem to be in more pain or experience more disorientation or anxiety during recovery. 

If you are concerned about your pooch, you should give your vet a call. Their behavior may be completely normal, but it never hurts to get expert advice.

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