I'm feeling a bit anxious and could really use some advice. My little furball, Whiskers, just had dental surgery yesterday and I'm supposed to be at work tomorrow. I’m worried about leaving her alone for the entire day. The vet said the surgery went well and gave me some instructions, but I'm still on edge. She's been pretty groggy and isn’t her usual playful self, which I guess is to be expected. I’m just concerned because she’s usually so active, and I don’t want her to be uncomfortable or in pain while I’m not around. I’ve left her with plenty of food and water, and a cozy spot to rest in, but that little voice in my head is nagging me. Have any of you been through something similar? How soon can they bounce back from something like this? I'd appreciate any tips or reassurance. Thanks so much!
Hello! I’m glad you reached out. It’s understandable to be concerned about your furry friend after their dental surgery. The good news is, cats generally recover quite well from these procedures, but it’s important to keep an eye on them in the day or two following surgery.
It’s usually okay to leave your cat alone for short periods the day after surgery, provided they seem alert and active. However, since your cat might experience some grogginess due to the anesthetic, it’s wise to monitor them to ensure they don’t have any adverse reactions. Common recovery symptoms can include slight grogginess, a reduced appetite, or some pawing at their mouth.
At home, you can help your cat by providing them a comfortable, quiet space to rest. Soft food can be easier on their mouth if they've had teeth extracted. Make sure they have easy access to water, and try to keep any play or jumping to a minimum until they’re more alert.
Watch for signs of complications like excessive bleeding, swelling, refusal to eat after 24 hours, or any signs of pain like vocalizing or hiding. If any of these occur, or if you’re just unsure, it’s best to seek advice.
If you’re still concerned or notice anything unusual, booking a video consult with one of our vets on Dial A Vet can provide you peace of mind.
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