Caring for your spayed cat (neutered cat) after surgery

Post operative care for cats who have been spayed

We know that many owners may have concerns taking their pet home after an anaesthetic or surgical procedure. Please remember that you do not have to feel that you are on your own. Our trained staff are there to offer all the advice and support you may need.

Spaying (neutering) a female cat involves the removal of both ovaries and the entire reproductive tract down to the level of the cervix. The main reason why this procedure is carried out is to prevent unwanted pregnancy. Neutering of female cats can be carried out at any time from 4 months of age.

Spaying is carried out under a full general anaesthetic. After a pre-med injection that includes a calming pain relief, the anaesthetic is introduced via a foreleg vein. Some hair will have been clipped over this vein.

An area of hair on the left flank will have been clipped to ensure maximum surgical sterility at the operation site. Certain breeds of cat may be clipped under their abdomen. The coat should grow back in 2-3 months.

After the operation the small incision in the skin is sutured (stitched). These sutures are usually dissolvable ones buried under the skin (and so cannot be seen). Sometimes we will use nylon stitches that need to be removed.

When you come to collect your cat, we will make an appointment to recheck her in 2-4 days, or to remove any nylon stitches in 10 days. (Please make sure your cat does not interfere with any stitches present; if necessary a collar can be provided to prevent any interference).

Due to the anaesthetic, your cat may be sleepy and a bit unsteady for the next 12-24 hours and should be kept indoors.

• During this time she should be allowed to rest quietly in a warm (not too hot) comfortable place.
• Offer a light meal but do not worry if she does not feel like eating when she gets home – normal appetite should return within 24-48 hours. Make sure fresh clean water is available at all times.

She should be kept indoors for at least 2 days after the operation (longer if possible) to allow the wound to begin the healing process.

If you have only recently acquired an adult cat it may be necessary to keep her in for a longer period after the operation until she has got used to living with you. Spaying will not prevent a stray cat from disappearing again.

If your cat has not eaten within 24 hours of her operation, she is listless, or you have any other concerns about the wound or her well-being please telephone us on 01823 662286 for advice.