Dear VetBabble: Is my cat’s vomiting and lethargy post-spay surgery normal, and should I be concerned?
First of all, I want to assure you that it’s completely natural for pet owners to worry about their furry companions after surgery. It’s essential to monitor your pet for any unusual behavior or symptoms, and you’ve done just that by reaching out for guidance. In this article, I will provide some insights on the possible causes of your cat’s vomiting and lethargy and offer suggestions on what you can do to help. The purpose is to ease your concerns and help other pet owners who might face similar issues.
Post-Surgery Nausea and Vomiting
Vomiting is not an uncommon occurrence after surgery, especially if it involves the abdomen, like spaying. Pain medications used during and after the procedure could be a possible cause, leading to nausea and vomiting. For more information on why your cat could be vomiting, take a look at Why is My Cat Vomiting?.
As a first step, if you’re giving Stella post-operative pain medications, kindly stop for 24 hours and notify your veterinarian. This will help you observe if the medications are causing her symptoms. One example of a drug that can lead to vomiting, lethargy, and shaking is Buprenex. If you see an improvement in her condition within a day, it could be a sign that her body is recovering from the surgery and adjusting to the medications.
Lethargy Post-Surgery
Lethargy is another common symptom after surgery. Spaying is a major operation, and it’s expected for your cat to feel tired and weak afterward. This is her body’s way of healing and recuperating. However, if her lethargy persists, worsens, or is accompanied by other symptoms, it’s crucial to consult with your veterinarian.
As mentioned earlier, stop any pain medications for 24 hours and inform your vet. If Stella doesn’t show improvements in her energy levels within a day or her symptoms worsen, it’s essential to have her examined by a professional. This will help identify any underlying issues or complications that might need further intervention. For more information on anesthesia risks, you can refer to What are the Anesthesia Risks for my Pet?.
When to Seek Professional Help
It’s vital to trust your instincts as a pet owner and closely monitor your cat for any unusual behavior or symptoms. If the vomiting or lethargy doesn’t subside or you notice additional issues, it’s important to schedule a visit with your veterinarian.
Your veterinarian can guide you with appropriate diagnostic tests and treatment options to ensure Stella gets the best care possible. Moreover, it’s necessary to keep an open communication with your vet regarding any changes in your cat’s condition or if you have concerns about her medications.
In conclusion, it’s essential to keep an eye on your cat after surgery and monitor her for any concerning behaviors or symptoms. You’re doing a great job by reaching out for advice, and I hope the information provided eases your worries. If the situation doesn’t improve or worsens, consulting your veterinarian is always the safest route. I hope Stella feels better soon! Please let us know if you have any further concerns or questions, and we’d be more than happy to help. For more information on this topic, you can check out Vomiting in Dogs: Causes, Treatment & When to Worry and Desexing Cats is More Common than we Think.
