Instructions for Post-Op Neutered Cats

Neutering is a surgical procedure that renders a male cat infertile. It is similar to a vasectomy in human males. Getting a cat neutered helps to decrease the population of unwanted cats in your area. Although neutering is a common practice, the cat is put under anesthesia and surgery is performed. After surgery, a cat needs to be taken care of so he heals properly and quickly. In the vast majority of cases, neutering causes no problems, but it is still best to keep an eye on your cat.

Instructions

1

Restrict the cat's movements for 36 hours. Many cats hide after surgery, so prevent the cat from getting to his favorite hiding areas. You want to be able to monitor him during his recovery. Place the cat in one room to reduce physical activity such as running and jumping.

2

Look for possible post-operative problems. See if you cat is bleeding, vomiting, shivering or has diarrhea. If so, call the veterinarian. Take note of any lethargy, weakness or loss of appetite for the next few days.

3

Put food and water out for the cat two hours after he returns home. Give the animal half the amount of food you usually give him. In many cases a cat won't eat the night after surgery so don't be alarmed if the cat isn't hungry.

4

Look at the surgery site each day to make certain the stitches are healing properly. Look for redness, discharge and swelling -- all signs of a problem. In male cats, the stitches are on the scrotum and are small. Most veterinarians use stitches that dissolve over time so there is no need to return to the veterinarian's office to have them removed.

5

Prevent the cat from licking the stitches. Removing the stitches can cause infection. Put an E-collar on the cat or spray on Bitter Apply, which is a substance with a bad taste. Spray this product on the sides of the stitches, not directly on them. Veterinarians usually sell both the spray and E-collar

6

Remove the litter from the litter box. The small particles of litter can get into the wound and cause an infection. Instead of litter, shred newspaper into an empty litter box for the male cat to use. Use shredded paper for at least seven days after surgery.