The kitten neuter operation is a good idea to prevent the birth of unwanted animals who might have to be euthanized in shelters. Spaying or neutering your kitten also protects his health. It makes him less likely to roam and fight, and removes the possibility of reproductive disease. Here's how you can care for your kitten or cat after a neuter operation.
Don'ts of Spay and Cat Neuter Post-Op Recovery
Here are some things not to do while your cat or kitten is recovering from a spay or neuter operation:
- Don't give food or water until the time specified by your vet. If your cat doesn't eat the night of the surgery, it's not a big deal.
- Don't administer any oral or topical pain medication. Your cat isn't in as much pain as you'd think, and in any case, any medication not prescribed by your vet could be dangerous to your cat.
- Don't allow your cat to lick at the incision site. Licking and chewing could cause an infection, or cause the incision to reopen. Distract your cat with treats, toys, and attention. A plastic e-collar (or cone that fits over your cat's head) will help keep your cat from licking and chewing; leave it on for at least a week after the operation.
- Don't use cat litter with male cats. Instead, use shredded paper for at least a week. Dust from cat litter could get into the incision, causing an infection.
- Don't allow jumping, playing, or any strenuous activity for at least five days post surgery, as this could cause the sutures to reopen.
- Don't bathe your cat for at least a week. If water gets into the incision, it could get infected.
- Don't try to remove the sutures. They are absorbable and don't need removal.
Dos of Spay and Neuter Post-Op Recovery
Here are some things you should do to help your cat or kitten recovery from a spay or neuter operation:
- Do check the incision daily to make sure it's clean and healing properly.
- Do keep your cat away from other animals. Males can continue to impregnate unspayed females for up to 30 days after the surgery. Animals coming home from surgery may smell different from the other pets in the household, causing fights.
Other Things to Keep in Mind
Here are some things you should keep in mind during the spay or neuter recovery process:
- A hard bump at the incision site is normal. You can use a cold pack to reduce swelling. If the bump grows or leaks pus or blood, consult your vet.
- Your pet should resume normal urination and defecation after three days. If your cat doesn't want to use shredded paper, you can buy dust-free post surgery litter from your pet supply shop. Persistent diarrhea (lasting more than three days) is cause for concern.
- Your cat might vomit the day of surgery or the day after, but if vomiting continues beyond this point, it's cause for concern.
- If your cat disappears or hides following surgery, it could mean he's in more pain than he should be, and you should consult your vet.