Post-Operative Behavior in a Neutered Cat

Neutering your male cat is the only foolproof way to prevent unwanted litters, territorial aggression, and dangerous long-distance wandering. The surgery itself is quick and the incision is small and won't even require stitches. There are things you should know, however, about your cat’s post-operative behavior.

  1. Post-Anesthesia Effects

    • Cats generally go home a few hours after surgery, so your cat may still be very tired and prefer to be left alone to sleep. This is normal. If he hides for more than a day, he could be in unusual pain and should see the vet.

    Incision Site

    • Because the incision site will still be tender, your cat may attempt to lick it. Do not allow this. If it seems like it will be a problem, ask your vet for an Elizabethan collar to prevent him from reaching it.

    Lack of Appetite

    • Your cat may not want to eat dinner that night, and that’s okay. Sometimes anesthesia can leave cats with a slightly upset stomach. He’ll eat when he’s ready.

    Litter Box Avoidance

    • Shredded paper is recommended as a post-surgical cat litter because it will not infect the incision. If your cat does not like the paper, other post-surgical litters are available that resemble normal litter in texture but do not produce dust that could enter the incision. You can find these at most pet supply stores.

    Long-Term Behavior

    • Your neutered cat is 90 percent less likely to roam, fight or spray, and these behaviors cease immediately following surgery in 60 percent of cases.