Postoperative Care for Cats
Just as it does for people, surgery takes a lot out of cats. After your cat has had surgery, he will need time to rest and to recover. All of his resources are going to be going towards healing himself, and making him comfortable and safe should be one of your top priorities.
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Immediately Post Surgery
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Leave your cat in his carrier for a night after he has had surgery. This will keep him from jumping up on something tall and falling, or hiding in a place where you cannot reach him. Check on him hourly for the first 12 hours you have him home. If he vomits, clean him up promptly and make sure that his head is turned so that he does not suffocate. Generally, your cat will simply want to be left alone, so keep contact brief and quiet.
Inspection
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While your cat is healing from his surgery, check the incision every day for a week. If there is dirt or debris in the incision, clean it gently with a cotton ball soaked in hydrogen peroxide. While a little pink seepage and a little swelling is normal, redness and a great deal of drainage need to be reported to your veterinarian.
Bathing
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Do not bathe your cat until at least 10 days have elapsed after the surgery. Not only is bathing very stressful for most cats, it can also increase the chance of infection if the incision is not thoroughly rinsed. You may be tempted to bathe your cat because he cannot clean himself, but your cat will be able to clean herself in a week or so. YKeep your cat out of the dirt for this period to avoid most hygiene issues.
Heat
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When a cat has undergone surgery, he will be losing significant amounts of body heat. Further, if he has been shaved, he has lost insulation. Make sure that your cat is kept warm after his surgery. A cat-safe heating source can be very helpful immediately after the surgery, and an extra blanket or towel in his carrier or bed can keep your cat comfortable.
Medication
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Your veterinarian will likely give your cat medication for pain relief or to prevent infection or for both purposes. Give your cat his medication according to the instructions. If you miss a day, contact your veterinarian and find out the appropriate dose your cat needs to make up for the missing day. Give your cat the full run of medication that he has be prescribed, even if he looks healthy before the medication has run out.
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