Helping Your Cat Heal From a Tail Amputation

Cats̵7; tails are prone to accidental injuries, infections, fractures and dislocations. In cases of severe injury or infection, veterinary surgeons may recommend the tail be surgically amputated. The surgical removal of a cat's tail, otherwise known as caudectomy, is a relatively common and safe procedure, although it is still a major operation. Your companion will need care and time to heal and adjust to life without a tail.

  1. Tail Amputation Surgery

    • A caudectomy may be complete or partial, depending on the location and severity of the injury. Cats that undergo partial tail amputation may experience fewer post surgical complications. A cat̵7;s tail is not connected in any way to the spinal cord, so injury to the tail does not damage the spine. Injury or removal of the tail may damage the nerves that control the bladder and anal sphincter.

    Activities

    • Immediately after surgery your cat may be subdued and calm from the anesthesia. Rest is very important for healing. Place your pet in a confined space at home, such as a crate or a quiet room. This will help your companion get adequate rest. Activities may need to be somewhat restricted for a few days after surgery.

    Wound Care

    • The veterinary surgeon will suture and bandage the wound following a tail amputation. This minimizes the risk of infection and allows the wound to heal as quickly as possible. The bandages should be kept clean. Check the wound and bandages regularly for signs of infection. These include discharge, tissue swelling or bleeding. Contact the vet immediately if you think the wound may be infected. Infections may delay healing.

    Incontinence and Balance

    • Cats use their tails for communication and fine balance. A caudectomy may temporarily impair your pet̵7;s fine balance. Damage to the nerves that control the bladder and anal sphincter, as a result of trauma or surgery, may lead to incontinence. Nerves do sometimes regenerate very slowly, so in some cases incontinence can transient. In the unlikely event that incontinence is permanent, your vet will show you how to express your cat manually.

    Recovery

    • Switch your cat to a high protein diet after surgery. This will help speed up tissue healing and recovery. Some cats experience a loss of appetite for the first few days after a surgical procedure. Add small quantities of fresh or canned fish to your pet̵7;s food to make it more palatable. An Elizabethan collar may be an option if your pet companion attempts to lick her wound or remove the stitches.