I’m really worried and could use some advice. My cat, Luna, was spayed last week, and I’ve been keeping an eye on her incision like the vet said. But tonight, when I went to check on her after dinner, it looked a little red and swollen, and she won’t stop licking it even though I got her this cute little cone. It’s not oozing or anything, but I’m freaking out because I’m not sure if this is normal healing or if I should call the vet ASAP. Has anyone else been through this? Is there anything else I should be doing to help her heal? Luna seems a bit more lethargic than usual too, and I just want her to be okay.
Appreciate the question — let's unpack this. Monitoring your cat's spay incision is really important to ensure it heals correctly. Typically, a healing incision should appear slightly red or pink with the skin edges touching each other closely. Some mild swelling is common, and you might see a small amount of clear fluid, which can be normal.
However, if you notice any signs of infection, like increased redness, swelling, pus, or a foul smell, these could indicate a problem. Additionally, if your cat is excessively licking the area, shows signs of pain, or if the incision starts to open, these are red flags.
For at-home care, make sure your cat wears an Elizabethan collar to prevent licking and biting at the incision. Keeping her mostly indoors and restraining her from jumping or climbing too much can also help avoid any unnecessary strain on the incision. Check the site daily to monitor for changes.
If you start to notice any signs of infection or if your cat seems in pain or lethargic, it would be wise to consult with a vet as soon as possible. Since recovery can vary, booking a video consult with Dial A Vet can provide peace of mind and personalized advice for your feline friend's healing process.
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