If you're a cat owner, it can sometimes be difficult to tell when they are not feeling well. Dogs tend to indicate if they are in pain or not feeling good much more obviously than cats. If your cat is in need of a surgical procedure and you have to take them in, it's important to know how to care for your cat after surgery. Read on to find out the best ways to help your cat cope.

What to Expect After Surgery

After your cat comes out of surgery, it's important that they have a soft and quiet place to sleep and rest. Cats tend to hide when they are unwell, so make sure you provide them with a place that will free of children or other distractions. Expect a bit of redness at the surgery site and mild irritation, but if you notice swelling, contact your veterinarian immediately, as this may be a sign of a possible infection. Don't expect your cat to be their normal, playful self after surgery. They will most likely be a bit lethargic from the anesthesia, and will also be tired and a little uncomfortable.

What you Can Do

Here are some things you can do to ensure your cat is comfortable and has a quick recovery after surgery:

• Keep your cat indoors if they are normally an outdoor cat. Any outside playtime while in recovery might result in an injury.
• Make sure your feline friend has a comfortable room where they can be alone for a day or two.
• Take note of the surgery site, and keep a close eye on it, looking for any signs of irritation, swelling, or bumps.
• Switch to shredded newspaper for litter for about a week. If your cat kicks up traditional litter, it may get into the surgery area and cause an infection.

What Not to Do

Of course, there are also some things cat owners should avoid doing while their cat is recovering from surgery:

• Do not feed your cat for one day after surgery. This will probably be instructed to you by the vet as well.
• Don't try to brush or bathe your cat. It might be tempting to do so, but any kind of extra trauma to the incision area can be dangerous until it's fully healed.
• Never apply any kind of ointment or treatment to your cat unless it is something that has been specifically prescribed by the veterinarian.
• Avoid giving your cat too much water the day of and after surgery. Ingesting too much may cause nausea and vomiting.

For more information, contact a clinic like Clovis Veterinary Hospital P A.