I’m really at a loss here… my cat Luna just got spayed a couple of days ago, and I’m having the hardest time keeping her recovery gear on. It’s like she’s made it her mission to get the medical shirt and cone off, no matter what I try. The minute I clip the e-collar on, she’s pawing at it and freaking out, and I even found her shirt halfway off when I got up this morning! I swear she’s part magician. It’s stressing me out because I want to make sure she recovers properly, but she’s just not having it. Any tips on how to keep her from being an escape artist would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks for reaching out with your concern! It’s quite common for cats to resist wearing a medical shirt or an e-collar, especially if they're not used to them. Your cat might find these items uncomfortable or restricting, which is why she's trying to take them off.
Medical shirts and e-collars are essential for preventing your cat from licking or scratching her incision site, which can lead to infection or delayed healing. It's crucial to keep the area protected.
There are a few things you can try at home to help her adjust. First, ensure that the medical shirt and e-collar are the correct size and fit snugly yet comfortably. You can also try to distract her by using her favorite toy or a bit of treat time when she's wearing the gear, which might help her get used to it.
Signs you should look out for that would indicate a more serious issue include redness, swelling, discharge, or if she seems to be in pain at the incision site. If you notice these symptoms or if she is persistently removing her protective wear despite your efforts, it might be time to seek professional advice.
Consider booking a video consult with Dial A Vet for more personalized tips and guidance to ensure her recovery is smooth and stress-free.
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