Redness and swelling around the incision. Signs of pain caused by inflammation: eating less, vomiting, lethargy, weakness, hiding, and other changes to normal behavior.
To best help your cat after surgery, provide them with a quiet and comfortable place to sleep, away from anything that might cause stress like other pets or children. Make sure to have a warm, comfortable bed ready for your cat that allows them to stretch and alleviate any discomfort from surgical areas.
Getting Over the Effects of General Anesthetic
Effects of general anesthetic may include temporary sleepiness or shakiness on their feet. These after-effects are quite normal and should fade with rest. Temporary lack of appetite is also quite common in cats who are recovering from the effects of general anesthesia.
Recovery Times for Cats After Surgery
About 80% of your cat's recovery will occur within 8 to 12 weeks following surgery, but many orthopedic surgeries take 6 months or more for complete recovery.
Poor mood and temperament; increased irritability. Vocalisation e.g. frequent unpleasant or urgent sounding meowing, groaning, hissing, growling. When in pain, your cat may actively or passively avoid being handled by either moving away from people or behaving aggressively when approached or touched.
Cats who are in pain may sleep more or less than usual, too. Cats in pain may also seek out warmer places to rest, such as a sunny spot or heating pad. Cats will hardly ever sleep on the floor; they prefer elevated resting spots. If you notice your cat laying in lower places, this can be a warning sign too.
Your cat should remain indoors. For most procedures, your cat's activity should be restricted for one week after surgery. It is essential to avoid running, jumping, and other strenuous activities that could cause excessive strain on the wound.
Don't leave your cat alone during her first 12-24 hours post-surgery. This stretch of time is when your pet needs to closest monitoring for excessive bleeding or issues with urination. If, after the allotted time, your cat seems to be able to urinate without trouble, you can keep an eye on her as you go about your day.
o Many cats will not have a bowel movement for the first 3-4 days after surgery. o Reasons that a cat will not have a regular bowel movement after surgery include: - Your cat has been fasted prior to surgery. - Your cat may not have eaten well during their hospital stay or the first few days home.
Experts say not to worry. “Overall, your cat's personality should not change,” Brömme says. Your cat may seem more reserved after getting the surgery, but that's because her hormones aren't fluctuating like they used to when she had heat cycles.
Sudden jumping or stretching can disrupt the healing process and may even cause the incision to reopen. Thankfully, few procedures require a significant crate or cage rest to help your cat recover, and most outdoor cats will be able to cope well with staying indoors for a few days as they recover.
Your cat's behavior is usually caused by feeling disorientated after the anesthetic and being extra sensitive and vulnerable. It may also be a sign they're in pain. Your cat may also be more stressed and anxious than usual.
Don't try to pet or play with your cat immediately after surgery. While this may feel reassuring to you, it may just keep your cat from feeling safe and rested. Avoid lifting your cat unless it's absolutely necessary. You can easily tear your cat's surgical incision if you lift or move your cat too much.
In most cases you can expect your cat to be groggy and lethargic from anesthesia for the first 12 to 24 hours. She may also be a little cranky or aggressive—basically feeling extra sensitive. Furthemore, your cat may have a decreased appetite for a day or so following surgery.
If your vet prescribes your cat with crate rest after their surgery, there are some measures you can take to make sure they are as comfortable as possible spending long periods of time confined. Ensure the size of your kitty's crate is large enough for them to stand up and turn around.
Why is my cat sleeping in his litter box after surgery? Any abnormal behavior changes in your cat after surgery are cause for concern. Pain and discomfort are two main reasons that cats hide in their litter box after surgery.
Litter dust can get into the surgery site and cause an infection. Shredded paper, a brand of litter called Yesterday's News (can be purchased at pet stores), or uncooked, long-grain rice should be used in the litter box for at least a week after surgery.
Due to the specially tailored opening on the back, the majority of cats can use the litterbox while wearing the shirt fully closed.
Cats also purr when they are stressed, in pain or severely ill. Sometimes cats at the end of life will purr. Purring releases endorphins which help reduce pain.
Sick cats often lie quietly in a hunched position. They might neglect grooming. They may be purring, which cats do not only when they're happy, but also when they're sick or in pain.
Cats purr to heal themselves.
If your cat is recovering from surgery or injury, you may notice some purring that feels out of place. Those soothing vocalizations may be very comforting to your under-the-weather kitty, and they also may play a role in healing.
Internal bleeding: Where an animal has pale gums/mucous membranes, is weak or lethargic, has a low body temperature and/or has extensive bruising, seek veterinary attention immediately.