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Is my pet sick and not eating due to neuter surgery complications?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Shorthair | Male | neutered | 5 months and 5 days old | 4.2 lbs

Watson was neutered and vaccinated when he was about five months, but only three pounds, by his rescue group. He's pretty skeletal right now, and is having a hard time eating and drinking. Could the surgery have made him sick - well, sicker? I'm waiting on his bloodwork results from his vet.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Angel Alvarado, LVT

Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

Licensed Veterinary Technician

Published on September 12th, 2018

It isn't likely to have caused whatever is causing the symptoms. It is likely he had a pre-existing condition that may have been aggravated by the anesthesia. Many of these drugs are filtered by the liver and kidneys.
Blood work is a start. Submit a stool sample to diagnose intestinal parasites, bacterial overgrowth or malabsorption/maldigestion issues.
Whatever the underlying cause, supportive care is likely indicated. Discuss a feeding tube and parenteral nutrition (IV nutritional support) with your veterinarian.
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