How to Help a Cat Recover From Anesthesia

When a cat goes in for surgery or is too wound-up to be looked at by a vet during a regular checkup, it is given drugs to knock it out, or sedate it. In some cases a clinic will allow the cat to recover from the sedation in-house, but other times vets will release the still-disoriented feline back to the owner. This can be a confusing and trying time for both the pet and the pet owner, and without proper care and supervision the cat can hurt itself while it is coming out of its drug stupor.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Separate the drugged cat from any other pets you might have at the home. Cats will sometimes have residual blindness and they need to be alone or they will feel distressed because they can tell something is going on, but they are unable to identify it.

2. Place the cat in a room from where it cannot escape. Because the cat is disoriented and often will not have full capacity of its limbs, there is a danger that it could injure itself by falling downstairs or running into a wall. A room where there is a safe couch to hide under or behind is best. Leave the cat with some familiar toys so it knows that it is at home.

3. Darken the room. Like a person coming out of a hangover, the best thing for the cat is to rest. Also, a cat's pupils will dilate from the drugs and excessive light can impair its vision long-term.

4. Do not panic. It is possible that the cat will act very strange and not recognize its owner. This is natural; do not feel the need to pet or reintroduce yourself to your animal. Recovering alone and in peace will get the best results.

Tips & Warnings

• Always ask a vet what type of drug he might give your cat and avoid it, if possible.
• If the cat does not recover after 24 hours, call the vet.

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