Bringing Your Cat Home: Post-Op Recovery Guide (Castration)

Your cat has just undergone surgery. Now, it’s time for rest and recovery.
If you have scanned the QR code on your discharge sheet, your cat is likely back home with you or on their way. The next 3 days are crucial for healing. This guide expands on your discharge sheet to help you understand exactly what is normal and what to watch out for.

1. The First 24 Hours: The "Groggy" Phase

It is completely normal for your cat to feel the effects of the anaesthetic for 24 to 48 hours.

• Sleepiness: They will likely want to sleep. Let them rest in a warm, quiet, and dark room.

• Wobbly Legs: Their coordination might be poor. Keep them at floor level to prevent falls from beds or sofas.

• Appetite: Offer a small portion of their normal food tonight. If they aren't hungry, don't panic—their appetite should return by tomorrow morning.

• The Green Bandage: Check your cat's front legs. If there is a small green bandage where the IV line was, please remove this once you are home. If left on too long, it can cause the paw to swell.

2. Protecting the Surgical Site

The wound is located at the back end. Because cats are fastidious groomers, they will instinctively want to lick the area.

• The "Cone of Shame" (Buster Collar): You must keep the collar on as directed. A rough tongue can open a surgical wound in seconds, leading to infection .

• Daily Checks: Check the wound twice a day. You don't need to touch it—just look.

  • Normal: Slightly pink skin, dry.

  • Abnormal: Weeping, discharge, bad smell, or significant swelling.

3. House Rules: The 3-Day Lockdown

We know it is hard to keep an active cat inside, but it is necessary for safety.

• Strictly Indoors: Keep your cat inside for at least 3 days. Their reflexes are slower, making them vulnerable to traffic or other animals.

• Hygiene: Ensure they have access to a clean litter tray.

• Rest: Discourage running, jumping, or rough play. The more they move, the more likely they are to experience swelling.

4. Medication & Pain Relief

If you have been sent home with medication (listed on your paper form), please complete the course even if your cat seems fine. Cats are experts at hiding pain.

• Signs of Pain: Hiding away, hunching up, growling when touched, or a loss of appetite.

5. When to Call Us (Red Flags)

Please contact us immediately if you notice:

• The Wound: Bleeding, pus, or the wound opening up.

• Toileting: Straining to urinate without producing urine (this is a medical emergency), or blood in the urine.

• General Health: Vomiting, diarrhoea, or if they are still extremely lethargic after 24 hours.

Need Reassurance?

We are always here to help.

• Call us: 01354 553457

• Send a Photo: If you are unsure if the wound looks normal, snap a clear photo and email it to reception@sigmavet.uk.