Cat is hiding and not using litter box after dental surgery

Hello there,



I understand how concerning it must be to see your cat hiding and not using the litter box after dental surgery. This behavior could be due to several factors. Cats often hide when they are in pain or feel unwell, and the discomfort from surgery could be contributing to this behavior. Additionally, anesthesia from the procedure might still be affecting her, making her feel a bit disoriented or uneasy.



It's also possible that she's associating the litter box with discomfort if she's still experiencing post-surgery pain, potentially in her mouth or elsewhere. Make sure she has a quiet, comfortable place to rest, and offer her soft foods to avoid irritating her mouth further.



At home, keep an eye on her incision site, if visible, for any signs of infection like swelling, redness, or discharge. Monitor her appetite; eating less or not at all can be a sign she’s not feeling well. Ensure she has access to fresh water and encourage drinking to stay hydrated.



If she doesn't return to her normal behavior over the next day or so, or if you notice vomiting, diarrhea, excessive lethargy, or refusal to eat, it's important to seek further veterinary assistance.



That said, if you're worried or have more questions, it'd be a great idea to book a video consult with one of our veterinary professionals through Dial A Vet. They can provide more personalized advice based on her specific situation.