Spaying, also known as ovariohysterectomy, is a common surgical procedure performed on female cats to prevent unwanted pregnancies and reduce the risk of certain health issues such as uterine infections and cancer. After your cat’s spay surgery, there are several things you should expect in terms of her behavior, physical condition, and post-operative care.

Immediately after the surgery, your cat will be in a recovery area where she will be closely monitored by veterinary staff. She may be groggy and disoriented from the anesthesia, and it’s not uncommon for cats to experience some mild shivering or twitching during this time. The veterinary staff will ensure that your cat’s vital signs, such as heart rate, breathing rate, and temperature, are stable before releasing her to you.

When you bring your cat home, she may be more tired than usual and could sleep for most of the day. It’s important to keep her in a quiet, warm, and comfortable area of the house to help her rest and recover. Your cat may have a shaved area on her abdomen where the incision was made, and there will likely be sutures or staples holding the incision closed. You should avoid touching the incision or letting your cat lick or bite at it, as this can lead to infection or complications.

Your cat’s appetite may be reduced for a day or two after surgery, but she should resume eating and drinking normally within 24-48 hours. You should offer her small amounts of food and water frequently to prevent her from overeating or becoming dehydrated. If your cat is not eating or drinking at all or seems lethargic, contact your veterinarian right away.

Your cat may also be more vocal or clingy than usual after surgery, as she may be feeling anxious or uncomfortable. It’s important to provide her with plenty of love and attention during this time to help her feel safe and secure. However, it’s also important to prevent her from jumping or playing too much, as this can put stress on the incision site and slow down the healing process.

In terms of post-operative care, your veterinarian will provide you with detailed instructions on how to care for your cat at home, including how to clean and monitor the incision site, when to give medications, and when to schedule a follow-up appointment. It’s important to follow these instructions closely to ensure that your cat has a smooth and speedy recovery.

In summary, after your cat’s spay surgery, you should expect her to be a little groggy and tired, with a reduced appetite and a shaved area on her abdomen. You should provide her with a quiet and comfortable area to rest and avoid touching or letting her lick the incision site. Your veterinarian will provide you with detailed post-operative care instructions to help your cat recover quickly and safely.