My cat is quiet and not social after spay. Is she in pain? What can I do?

It is normal that a kitten will be quieter than usual after a spay. It is an abdominal surgery, and it's important that she does stay as quiet as possible so she can heal correctly. Wearing an Ecollar can also lead them to be quieter than normal, as cats do not like them and act resigned to wearing them. As long as she eating and drinking normally, I wouldn't be too concerned about her but you can mention your concern with your vet at the appointment tomorrow. I hope this helps!

Hi, the incision seems absolutely fine. However what you describe in terms of demeanour and behaviour is not expected after a few days. It could be that Kit cat has a temperature or that she is still in pain. I would recommend to have her checked over to exclude any potential post op concerns such as internal wound breakdown or an internal infection. If all is well, she could have some symptomatical treatment for pain and or/temperature.

Cats do not usually run away when spayed, however if in pain they may attempt to hide so that they can rest and relax. If your cat escaped outdoors it is best to find her as quickly as possible to make sure she does not harm the surgical site and if you find her, examine the site carefluly. If you notice bleeding/torn sutures she needs to return to the vet immediately. She needs to be kept indoors until the surgical site is completely healed up. If she is hiding in the house or under a bed, quietly looking for her is best. Once found, placing litter and food/water near her is a good idea so she can access them as needed. If she appears in a lot of pain, bringing her back to the vet for care or pain meds is needed.

All the behaviors you're describing sound normal and relaxed, even though they are a bit different than her. Going to the vet for an exam wouldn't be wrong, but since you're tight on funds anyways, and none of that sounds concerning to me, I think it's ok to wait and watch her. If she seems to be getting MORE subdued, or has a decreased appetite, a distended abdomen, or doesn't want you to touch her belly (if she'd normally allow this), then I would be concerned.

Occasionally they will act "off" for a day or 2 following anesthesia, and a lot of cats really hate wearing a cone. (though you should keep in on her!) The combination of everything you mention could lead to her being a bit cranky. And the walking backwards and falling over is probably from the cone. Take it off for a few minutes and watch her move around to ensure she walks normally without it. If she continues to be stumbling/clumsy/abnormal gait with the cone off, then take her to your vet for an exam. But If she is eating some (even if its less than normal), give her some space. Let her have her own isolated area... a small bathroom, laundry room, etc, with food, water, litter box, and some comfy beds and or boxes she might like. She should be acting more like herself over the next few days. If at any point she is becoming increasingly lethargic, she starts vomiting, she is completely anorexic (not eating anything at all for more than 24 hours), then take her to your vet right away. Thank you for asking PetCoach1

Thank you for submitting your question regarding Lily. She may still be feeling the effects of the anesthesia from her surgery yesterday. I recommend keeping her quiet today and allowing her to rest. Monitor her so that you can ensure that she continues to eat and drink. If she is not acting normal by tomorrow, then I would contact her veterinarian. She may be painful. Do not give any over-the-counter pain medications though as these can be toxic to cats. I hope this information helps!

Thank you for submitting your question regarding Pooki. Yes, she may be painful. Keep her quiet tonight if she is otherwise acting normal. Contact her veterinarian first thing tomorrow to discuss her pain control and what may need to be changed. Do not give her any over-the-counter pain medications as these can be toxic to cats. I hope this information helps.