Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo
  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

    rewards header
    Become a member today!
    Members-only pricing and offers, personalized care notifications, Vital Care points back on every purchase and more!
    Petco Pay LogoBecome a credit card member today!

    Earn 2X Pals Rewards points at Petco
    when you use Petco Pay!

    APPLY NOW
    Learn More About Petco Pay Benefits

Are swollen lymph nodes normal after dog spay and suture reaction?

Updated on September 23, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed | 9 months and 13 days old | 21.8 lbs

My dog was spayed 22 days ago, she got an infection which cleared with antibiotics. She is now having a reaction to the sutures but her lymph nodes are still swollen. Is this a normal response to the reaction of the sutures?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Dr. Dayna, DVM, CVA

Answered By Dr. Dayna, DVM, CVA

Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

Published on May 17, 2018

I am sorry to hear that Bonnie isn’t healing as quickly as we would like. Unfortunately suture reaction is a well known complication to almost any type of surgery, but we can not predict which patients are going to respond that way. It is less common to see lymph node involvement, however lymph nodes can respond to any type of inflammation. In my experience it usually resolves in a few weeks with limited need for any additional therapy. However, frequent follow ups with your veterinarian would be a good plan to make sure nothing concerning is going on. Best of luck and I hope she improves soon. Thank you for using Pet Coach.
Vote Icon1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Smart Picks for Smart Questions

Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Share

Styled arrow button