When Your Cat Needs Surgery

If your cat needs surgery, you can help your animal even though you cannot perform the actual operation. You will be involved in getting your pet prepared prior to surgery if time allows and in helping your animal to have a speedy recovery.

Three main types of surgery are used for cats. Elective surgeries are those that you choose to have done such as spaying or declawing. Non-elective surgery needs to be done for your cat's health, but it can be scheduled. Emergency surgery is done when the cat's life is threatened such as if your pet is hit by a car.

For scheduled surgeries, your vet will instruct you not to feed your pet for the twelve hours prior to the operation. As cats may vomit from the anesthetic, the fear is the your pet could choke while unconscious.

Since your cat will be very hungry, be especially careful to keep all food put away. He or she may even do things that are not characteristic such as getting in the garbage or tearing open bags of food, so you may want to keep kitty completely away from the kitchen. Also, do not let your pet around the food you have left out for other animals. You may have to confine kitty to a separate room to make absolutely sure your feline does not get any food.

Your vet probably quoted a price range for surgery. Remember that complications can arise, and you may be faced with higher expenses as a result. If you have pet health insurance, check your policy for what is covered and what is not.

During your cat's hospitalization, visit at least daily so that your pet knows you have not abandoned him or her. This can also help make recovery faster, as seeing you will lessen anxiety and stress.

Your vet will give instructions for caring for your cat at home. Be sure that these are in writing even if you have to take your own notes. If hair was shaved, you may have to provide blankets for warmth. Be careful to administer medications as instructed.

Usually the cat will not be allowed to go outside for a certain time after the operation, even if he seems fit and wants to go out. It is important to keep him inside to prevent infection, especially if there is an incision wound. By carefully observing all of the advice that your veterinarian has given you, you can do a great deal to help bring about a full and quick recovery after surgery on a cat.

By working with your vet, you will be able to give your cat the best possible preparation and recovery from surgery.


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