why big lampshade collars

[wobble]

Hi,
I have another question for you guys out there...
(thanks by the way for the info here, im getting into this forum!)..
its not really about by cat, but a general question...

why do dogs and cats need to wear those really big collars on their heads after operations... the ones that look like lampshades?

is it really necessary?
Thanks- Janet

[bigdog]

Hi wobble.. to answer your question..

Why do pets need to wear collars on their heads after operations?
After operations, we are left with two things
1) A wound where the operation has been done, e.g. to repair a cut, or to do an operation such as a routine sterilization of an animal (to avoid unwanted pregnancies and too many animals without homes).
2) Often a line of stitches.
Now, both of these things are attractive to the animal… its normal for a pet to want to lick themselves to investigate… see what the strange smell or taste is, and why it is itchy.
However, pets don’t necessarily know when to stop-
A couple of licks is probably ok, but extended licking can cause severe irritation and inflammation of the skin- then in turn which makes the area even more uncomfortable!
Also, the pet’s mouth can have some bacteria in the saliva, so it’s not as clean as just keeping a collar on the pet and bathing the wound gently each day with some mild antiseptic provided by your vet. If it gets infected, this will slow wound healing.
So, it’s better for you and your pet to tolerate a few days or week of an annoying collar, rather than risk making the problem worse and the wound healing more slowly.
In some circumstances, if the animal licks at their wound, actually they can remove their stitches. Some pets are awfully clever, and can do this in a few minutes even!! This can have severe hazardous consequences- if there are no stitches, dirt and infection can get in the wound, or in extreme cases, things could pop out from inside the body, to outside… this could even be life-threatening.
Talk to your vet more about why and how to use a collar, but this above is a summary of some of the helpful reasons for using a collar.
But like anything, it should only be used IF the vet has advised it, and in the way that the vet has advised it. It could also do harm if placed or used incorrectly. Please see your vet for detailed advice and instruction on this issue!
Hope that helps..

I agree it does seem very 'out of date' to see these big plastic collars... if you don't like the look of them, there are other collars available.
But the white plastic ones are cheap, can be cleaned easily, and to be honest are very effective.

[woofwoof]

yes,
I agree, unfortunately these big collars are essential... until some other invention comes along which can prevent pets chewing at their stitches.
But they must be used carefully with veterinary supervision and instruction, to avoid any mishaps.
Always ask your regular vet for advice and take your pet to the vet for advice- don't try to decide on your own what's best for your pet without your regular local vet explaining whats best for your pet, and what the circumstances are, and why....