Nearly every cat will need to undergo surgery at some point in their life. Hopefully, a simple spay or neuter when you first adopt your cat will be the only procedure ever needed. Sometimes, however, cats will require other surgeries to best maintain their health. Most complications occur during the period immediately after surgery, so it’s crucial to follow the instructions provided by your veterinarian. In addition, here are six important precautions to take to keep your cat safe and comfortable after their procedure.
1. Monitor Incisions
More than likely, your cat will have dissolvable stitches, but you need to watch for excessive swelling, oozing, foul odor, or abnormal bruising. Don’t apply any creams or ointments and don’t allow the incision to get wet. Follow your vet’s instructions as to how long your cat needs to wear an Elizabethan collar.
2. Designate a Safe Space
Usually, cats will still be feeling the effects of anesthesia when they return home, making them uncoordinated. Confine your woozy cat to a safe area with a soft, comfy bed for recuperation. In addition, move their litter box to the space, as well as water to keep your cat hydrated as they recover.
3. Look for Signs of Pain
Cats are excellent at hiding pain, but there are some telltale signs to look for. Their natural instinct when in pain is to hide, so make sure to keep up with their whereabouts at all times. Other indicators that your cat is in pain include being quieter than normal, pacing, rapid breathing, or decreased appetite. You certainly don’t want your cat to be in pain, but even more important is that pain will cause stress that will slow down the healing process.
1. Monitor Incisions
More than likely, your cat will have dissolvable stitches, but you need to watch for excessive swelling, oozing, foul odor, or abnormal bruising. Don’t apply any creams or ointments and don’t allow the incision to get wet. Follow your vet’s instructions as to how long your cat needs to wear an Elizabethan collar.
2. Designate a Safe Space
Usually, cats will still be feeling the effects of anesthesia when they return home, making them uncoordinated. Confine your woozy cat to a safe area with a soft, comfy bed for recuperation. In addition, move their litter box to the space, as well as water to keep your cat hydrated as they recover.
3. Look for Signs of Pain
Cats are excellent at hiding pain, but there are some telltale signs to look for. Their natural instinct when in pain is to hide, so make sure to keep up with their whereabouts at all times. Other indicators that your cat is in pain include being quieter than normal, pacing, rapid breathing, or decreased appetite. You certainly don’t want your cat to be in pain, but even more important is that pain will cause stress that will slow down the healing process.
4. Temporarily Change the Type of Litter
If your cat has a wound that needs bandages, you want to use a litter that is unlikely to get caught in the incision. The best kind to use after surgery is a pelleted or shredded paper-based litter. If you have an office shredder, you can shred printer paper or tear up paper towels or newspaper. Since this type of litter is not very absorbent, it’s a good idea to line the bottom of your cat’s litter box with a training pad.
5. Follow Vet’s Medication Orders
It can be tempting to lay off the pain meds when your cat begins to act like they’re feeling better after surgery, and it’s also easy to forget about administering antibiotics. It’s very important to protect your cat from infection, however, and antibiotics are the best way to do that. Additionally, easing their pain will allow them to rest and recuperate more effectively. Don’t try any home remedies during this period unless you have talked to your vet about it ahead of time.
6. Protect Your Cat from Other Pets
Other pets in your home will probably be curious about your cat’s odd behavior and may want to investigate. In particular, kittens and puppies may try to encourage your cat to play. Gently remind other pets that they need to give their recuperating friend some space and keep them separated from your recovering cat altogether.
This article was written by our friend Kay Carter
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