How to Take Care of a Cat That Just Got Spayed

Cats should be spayed before their first heat.

The surgery procedure for spaying a cat is much more involved than neutering a cat. This is because the veterinarian must remove ovaries and a uterus that are internal, requiring minor abdominal surgery. Despite this, spaying is largely considered beneficial to the cat as it prevents unwanted pregnancies and kittens, breast cancer and some behavior problems. Your cat will need several days of special care following this surgery to prevent infection and help the healing process.

Things You'll Need

• Cat bed
• Cat food
• Water

Instructions

1. Confine your cat to a small area, such as a bathroom, for 24 hours following the surgery. In this area, provide a comfortable and soft bed, food and water. This confinement will prevent her from becoming too active and opening the fresh incision.

2. Monitor your cat’s behavior closely during the first 24 to 48 hours after surgery. Within this time, she should return to her normal activities and be eating and drinking. If she is not acting normally, not eating or not drinking, call your veterinarian.

3. Check the suture once a day for about a month to ensure that it is healing properly by gently rolling her onto her back while she is laying on a solid surface. Some swelling and redness is normal. Puss, fluid draining or the incision opening up is not normal. In these cases, take your cat back to the veterinarian immediately.

Tips & Warnings

• If your cat is licking the wound, you may need to get a cone from the veterinarian to prevent her from opening the incision.

• Call your veterinarian any time you have concerns about your cat’s incision.

References

• The Merck/Merial Manual for Pet Health; Cynthis M. Kahn, BA, MA; 2007
• Mar Vista Animal Medical Center: Cat Spay FAQ