Mary Allen
If your cat has had surgery, picking it up from the vet is not the end of it. Aftercare has a big impact on how quickly your velvet paw recovers. And the long-term success of the surgery also depends on how well you care for your cat afterward.
When your cat regains consciousness after an operation, you may not recognize it at first: it needs much more rest, is weak and sensitive – just like a human would be after a general anesthetic. In the first few hours after an operation, you as the owner should take special care of your cat or tomcat. Give your pet time to regain consciousness.
Offer Protection to Your Cat
Your cat needs rest and warmth first and foremost, now and for the next few days. If there are other animals in the house, you should first keep them away from the operated velvet paw, as they usually have little empathy for their playmate’s need for quiet. The four-legged friends who stayed at home often do not understand what happened to their conspecifics and want to play with them as usual. However, this can lead to serious injuries if the operated animal cannot defend itself properly. In addition, wounds from the operation can open up or even become infected. There can also be power struggles over hierarchy: if other cats in the household notice that an animal is weakened, they often use this to strengthen their own position.
Surgical Aftercare: Lot of Attention, But No Compulsion
As an owner, you must now give your cat a lot of attention. Cuddles are of course part of this but don’t push them too much. Instead, assume the role of observer: During the follow-up care, examine any sutures or scars from the operation. Do these heal properly? If they become infected, be sure to consult a veterinarian.
For optimal aftercare, your cat’s retreat must be very clean. Only provide her with clean blankets or baskets to minimize the risk of infection. Food and water should always be within reach of the animal. But don’t force your velvet paw to eat or drink! The appetite may not return for a few days.
Follow the Doctor’s Aftercare Tips
Of course, you should also take into account all the advice your veterinarian gave you after the operation. It is best to have a list of the most important points for postoperative care given to you – before the actual operation. In this way, you cannot miss or misunderstand something in the hectic pace of picking up your cat. Does the surgical wound have to be cared for with an ointment? When can the animal eat again? Do threads have to be pulled? Depending on the type of operation, you have to pay attention to a wide variety of things. If in doubt, just give your vet a call.