Cat Post Operative Care

Your cat has had a general anaesthetic today and may be drowsy when you get home. This is normal after a general anaesthetic. Your cat should be back to normal within 24-48 hours, but will need to be kept quiet and warm this evening.

A small area of hair may have been clipped from one or both of your cat’s legs and/or the neck, don’t worry this will soon grow back. This is to allow administration of the anaesthetic, and for the collection of blood samples. Anaesthesia usually involves placing a breathing tube in the windpipe and occasionally this may cause a little irritation afterwards. You may notice slight coughing, but this should not persist for more than a day or so.

Medication - If medication has been dispensed it should be given as directed so please read the dosage carefully and complete the course of tablets
Feeding - Later this evening your cat may want food and water. Please offer a small amount of the special diet that you have been given. Water should be available at all times.

Additional Aftercare if your pet has had surgery

Wound care - It is important to monitor any wounds or dressings. If you notice any problems such as swelling, discharge or redness, or the dressing has slipped or appears to be uncomfortable please contact the surgery for further advice. Dressings should be kept clean and dry at all times. It is important that your cat does not interfere with any wounds or dressings by licking or chewing them. We advise that your cat goes home with a collar or pet shirt to prevent this.

Your cat should be kept indoors with a litter tray until the wound check up unless instructed otherwise.
If you have selected a pet vest to protect the wound please check your cat over every day underneath the vest to ensure the vest is not rubbing. Your cat should be able to pass urine and faeces with the vest on but check for any soiling as this may delay wound healing.

Checks-ups - Please book a post-operative check-up for 3-5 days time so we can monitor his/her progress. A follow-up is required in 10-14days for suture check/removal dependant on what suture has been used (You will be advised on this)
Medication - Your pet may have been given an antibiotic and painkiller injection following their operation. If the Vet has prescribed further medication, it should be given as directed and started the morning after surgery, unless otherwise stated.

Some useful tips for giving tablets:

a) Place tablets in a treat, such as chicken, tuna or something else strong smelling.
b) If you are worried about using your fingers, you could try a 'Pill Popper'. This is like a syringe, but the tablet fits into a clasp at the end and when you push the plunger the tablet is forced out. Ask a nurse or your vet to demonstrate one to you.

If you have any concerns or queries please do not hesitate to contact the surgery.