Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!
Become a member today!
Members-only pricing and offers, personalized care notifications, Vital Care points back on every purchase and more!
Already a member? Sign in
Become a credit card member today!
Earn 2X Pals Rewards points at Petco
when you use Petco Pay!
APPLY NOW
Learn More About Petco Pay Benefits

My cat won't eat or drink after neuter surgery. Is he okay?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

My cat was neutered 2 days ago. He ate and drank night he came home and the next day, today he stopped eating and drinking and has slept all day. He was given onsior for pain. Should i be worried or is this normal? Should i stop giving him the pain med?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on January 13th, 2017

I would give the vet a call before stopping the pain medication, and let them know that he has stopped eating or drinking. This isn't normal behavior a day after surgery, and the vet should know about this.

2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Laura Johnson VMD
Veterinarian
Published on November 13th, 2017
Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Poor Sneakers!

No this is not normal after being neutered, maybe a cat would have a decreased appetite the day after the procedure but not 2-4 days later. I recommend that you have him seen today or tomorrow by a Vet. Cats shouldn't go more than 3 days with out eating. They can get very sick secondary to fatty liver disease with prolonged anorexia.

Sneakers could have a fever, have a metabolic conditions (liver or kidney issue) or a viral infection.

I hope this helps and I wish Sneakers a speedy recovery!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Smart Picks for Smart Questions

Related Questions

Training & Behavior

My cat is crying in the litter box after neuter surgery. Why?

It sounds like he is still experiencing some pain. Talk to the vet who did the neuter about prescribing an anti-inflammatory/pain medication to help relieve the pain and make him more comfortable. Do not give any human pain medications as they can be toxic to cats.

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

My neutered cat isn't eating, drinking, or vomiting. Is this normal?

I am sorry Miso is not feeling well. I would recommend taking Miso to the vet for a good exam, It is possible that Miso has gotten sick and it is not related to the neuter. Some cats can be sensitive to certain medications but can also get viral disease that can cause vomiting and anorexic. IT is best to have his temperature taken and a good exam to help determine why he is sick and proper treatment. I hope that helps

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Food & Nutrition

My cat stopped eating after neuter surgery for days. Is it serious?

That is concerning that Kovu has suddenly stopped eating as much and has not eaten for the past three days. That makes it a medical emergency. When a cat doesn't eat for three days, they will develop a fatty liver which is fatal without treatment. Since you cannot reach your vet, you need to take him into an ER vet clinic now or find another vet in town to see you. Best of luck.

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Health & Wellness

My rabbit won't eat or drink after neuter. Is it pain meds or serious?

Yes, I think you should take him back to the vet. These guys tend to get GI stasis ( where the intestinal tract stops moving) after surgery sometimes and it is best to get him treated before it gets too bad. It could be the pain meds but I doubt it.

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

My new kitten is lethargic and not eating after neuter, is he okay?

Noodle might be sick. By this point, he should be completely recovered from the neuter. I recommend to ave him examined today if possible. He could have a fever, infection or a reaction to the anesthesia. Best to play it safe. I hope this helps and please feel free to post any additional questions.

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

My dog was neutered today. Should I worry he's not eating or drinking?

It is not unusual for dogs to not have interest in food and water that first night after anesthesia and surgery. However, if you have concerns that something isn’t right then it is always safest to have her examined by a veterinarian. Your veterinarian may have an emergency number or they may refer to a local emergency center. Best of luck and I hope she improves soon.

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Food & Nutrition

My cat won't eat or drink after bladder surgery. What's wrong?

Thank you for submitting your question regarding Kent. I am sorry to hear that he is still not eating after his surgery. Is his pain well controlled? Being painful after surgery is a big reason why a cat will refuse food. Perhaps ask your veterinarian to prescribe an additional pain medication. Do not give any over-the-counter pain medications as these can be toxic to cats. Also make sure his incision site is clean and there is no pain, redness, discharge or swelling that could possibly indicate an infection. I hope this information helps!

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Share