How to Care for Drainage Tubes in Dogs and Cats

ImmunityQ&AMeongsiljang Veterinary Advisory Board

We’ve compiled the essentials every pet owner should know about post-surgical drainage tubes, including the different types, how to care for and disinfect them at home, warning signs that require a vet visit, and when it’s time for removal.

What Is a Drainage Tube?

A Golden Retriever resting comfortably with a drainage tube inserted in its side after surgery.

A drainage tube is a medical device inserted to remove blood, bodily fluids, or pus that accumulates in surgical sites or deep wounds. If these fluids are not drained promptly, bacteria can multiply, leading to infection or severe swelling, making the tube essential for post-surgical recovery. It is crucial to keep the area around the drainage tube clean and to check the amount, color, and odor of the drainage daily. Early detection of any abnormalities helps prevent complications.

Types of Drainage Tubes

Drainage tubes used in pets are broadly categorized into two types.

Open (passive) drainage tubes: The Penrose drain is a classic example. A flat rubber tube is placed inside the wound, allowing fluid to drain naturally by gravity. Due to its simple structure, it is commonly used for relatively small wounds or abscesses.

Closed (active) drainage tubes: Systems like the Jackson-Pratt drain use negative pressure (suction) to draw fluid into a collection reservoir. This method carries a lower risk of external contamination and allows for precise measurement of the drained volume.

Open vs. Closed Drainage Tubes: A Comparison

Item	Open type (Penrose)	Closed type (Jackson-Pratt)
Working principle	Natural drainage by gravity	Active drainage by negative pressure (suction)
Infection risk	Relatively high (open structure)	Low (sealed structure)
Drainage measurement	Difficult (observe gauze)	Accurate (reservoir graduations)
Main use situation	Small wounds and abscesses	Dead space management after major surgery
Management difficulty	Moderate	Moderate (requires emptying reservoir and maintaining negative pressure)

The veterinarian selects the appropriate type based on wound size, location, and degree of contamination

Three Things to Check Daily at Home

If your pet is discharged with a drainage tube in place, there are several items you need to check daily.

Check the drainage volume: For closed systems, read the measurement markings on the collection chamber. For open systems, estimate the amount absorbed by the gauze. Record these amounts and compare them to the baseline volume provided by your veterinarian.

Check the color: It is normal for the drainage to appear reddish at first. Over time, it should gradually become clearer. If you notice a deep yellow or greenish tint, it may indicate an infection.

Check for odor: A foul smell suggests a possible bacterial infection. Contact your veterinary clinic immediately.

The owner, wearing gloves, checks the drainage tube of a small dog.

Warning Signs That Require Immediate Veterinary Care

If any of the following occur, seek veterinary care immediately: • Severe swelling or redness around the drainage tube • Discharge of dark yellow or green fluid • A foul odor • A sudden significant increase or complete cessation of drainage • The pet has chewed on or dislodged the drainage tube • Lethargy and persistent abnormal fever Never attempt to reinsert a dislodged drainage tube yourself.

How to Disinfect the Area Around the Drainage Tube

Disinfect the area around the drainage tube 2–3 times a day, or as directed by your veterinarian.

Supplies needed: Disinfectant prescribed by your veterinarian (such as diluted chlorhexidine), sterile gauze, disposable gloves

Disinfection steps:

1. Wash your hands thoroughly and put on gloves. 2. Gently wipe away any old discharge around the insertion site with gauze. 3. Using a new piece of gauze soaked in disinfectant, wipe from the inside out. 4. Lightly cover the area with clean gauze. Recording the amount and color of drainage each time you disinfect will be helpful during veterinary visits.

A gloved hand disinfecting the area around a dog’s drainage tube with gauze.

Timing and Process for Drainage Tube Removal

The timing for drain removal is determined by your veterinarian. Generally, removal is considered when the output significantly decreases and the fluid becomes clear. The timeframe varies depending on the type of drain: open (Penrose) drains are typically removed within 3 to 5 days, while closed (Jackson-Pratt) drains are often removed within 3 to 7 days. In some cases, the drain may need to remain in place longer depending on the wound's condition. The removal process is usually straightforward. It is normal for a small amount of fluid to continue leaking from the insertion site for 1 to 2 days after removal. Please keep the area clean and prevent your pet from licking it.

A veterinarian carefully removes the drainage tube from a dog lying on the examination table.

Elizabethan Collars and Activity Restrictions Are Essential

While the drainage tube is in place, it is essential to keep the Elizabethan collar (cone) on at all times. If your pet licks or chews at the tube, the risk of infection increases significantly, and the tube may become dislodged. Even if the collar seems uncomfortable, please keep it on until it is time for removal. Additionally, avoid running, jumping, and vigorous play until the drainage tube is removed. For walks, keep them short and use a harness instead of a collar to reduce pressure on the drainage site.

Reviewed by a veterinarian

Dr. Tony — Punnawat Phongkittirak

Veterinarian

A veterinarian who majored in veterinary medicine at Khon Kaen University, Thailand, and completed the IVSA program at North Carolina State University in the United States. Drawing on clinical experience at animal hospitals, he works in the pet healthcare field and is dedicated to building a digital care environment that connects pet parents with veterinarians.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it okay if a little blood is coming out of the drainage tube?

It’s normal to see a small amount of pale red fluid for 1–2 days after surgery. However, if bright red blood continues to appear or the amount increases, you should visit the clinic immediately.

What should I do if the drainage tube has come out?

Never try to push it back in yourself. Gently cover the insertion site with clean gauze and contact your veterinarian right away.

Is it okay to bathe my pet while they still have a drainage tube in place?

Please avoid bathing your pet while the drainage tube is in place, as water entering the insertion site can increase the risk of infection. Wait until your veterinarian gives the all-clear.

Do cats also use drainage tubes?

Yes, cats can also have drainage tubes placed after surgery or abscess treatment. The care routine is the same as for dogs, but it’s important to restrict your cat’s activity space to prevent them from hiding in tight spots where the tube could get caught.

Is wound care still necessary after the drainage tube is removed?

Yes, a small amount of fluid may leak from the insertion site for 1–2 days after removal. Keep the area clean and have your pet wear an Elizabethan collar until it has fully healed.

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References

[1] Buote NJ, Techniques in Small Animal Wound Management, Wiley-Blackwell, 2024