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Question:

Suspected stroke in senior cat following anesthesia

I'm really hoping someone can help or offer some advice because I'm kind of freaking out here. My senior cat, Whiskers, had to go under anesthesia a couple of days ago for a dental cleaning, and now I'm worried he might have had a stroke. Things seemed fine at first, but he started acting really off once we got home. He's stumbling around a bit, and there's a tilt to his head that wasn't there before. I know he's getting older—it’s just so hard seeing him like this. Our vet appointment isn't until tomorrow, and I don't even know if I should wait that long. Has anyone been through something similar with their fur babies? I'm sitting here watching him and feeling a bit helpless. Any advice or personal experiences would be great right now. Thanks so much in advance.

Answer:

Hello there,



I’m sorry to hear about your concerns for your senior cat. It sounds like a stressful situation, but let's try to get a better understanding. In older cats, anesthetic procedures can sometimes lead to aftereffects that might resemble a stroke, such as imbalance, disorientation, or weakness.



While true strokes, or cerebrovascular accidents, are relatively rare in cats, they can occur and may be triggered by embolisms, high blood pressure, or heart disease. These conditions can occasionally be influenced by anesthesia or the stress of surgery.



For at-home care, ensure your kitty has a quiet, comfortable space to rest. Make it easy for them to access food, water, and litter without having to navigate stairs or obstacles. Monitor their behavior closely—look for signs like extreme lethargy, persistent head tilt, difficulties in walking, or significant behavioral changes.



If you notice these warning signs or if your cat isn’t improving, it's important to seek veterinary attention promptly. There could be underlying conditions that require addressing.



To get a comprehensive evaluation and personalized advice, consider booking a video consult with a veterinarian through Dial A Vet. We're here to help you and your feline friend through this.



Take care!

Answered by

Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet

June 20, 2025

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The "Ask a Vet" forum on Dial A Vet offers general information and helpful tips on pet health, but it's not a substitute for professional veterinary care. The advice here doesn't create a veterinarian-client-patient relationship, and our vets can't diagnose or treat your pet remotely. For emergencies or specific medical concerns, always contact your local veterinarian immediately. Your pet's health is unique, and decisions should only be made after consulting with a qualified professional. By using this forum, you acknowledge these limitations and agree to seek in-person veterinary advice for all your pet's health needs. View our content guidelines.
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