I don’t know what’s going on with my new cat, Luna. She just had surgery and they put in one of those tubes to help her eat. Problem is, she keeps pawing at it like crazy, especially when I’m not watching her closely. It's been a couple of days now, and I’m super worried she’s going to mess up her sutures by yanking at them. I’ve tried one of those inflatable collars, thinking maybe she’d chill out with it on, but nope, she’s like Houdini and manages to get around it. I’m kind of at a loss and could really use some advice on how to keep her distracted or calm, especially during the night when I can’t keep an eye on her every second. Anyone been through this with their fur baby?
You're doing the right thing by asking about how to keep your cat comfortable and safe after being fitted with an E-tube. It's important to ensure they don't accidentally harm themselves by scratching or pulling at their sutures.
Cats tend to scratch or pull at sutures due to irritation or discomfort. Here are some potential causes and solutions:
1. **Irritation from Stitches:** The stitches or tube itself might be itchy. Make sure it’s clean and dry. Slight redness and swelling are normal, but if it appears excessively swollen, or if there's pus, a vet's visit is necessary.
2. **Boredom or Stress:** If your cat is stressed, redirect their attention with toys or interactive play. A calm environment can also help reduce stress.
For at-home care, you can utilize an Elizabethan collar (often called a "cone") to prevent your cat from reaching the sutures. Ensure it's the right size so your cat is comfortable yet unable to reach the tube.
Additionally, using a light gauze wrap can help deter scratching, but ensure it's not too tight to avoid impairing circulation.
Watch for signs of infection or prolonged irritation, such as a foul odor, increased redness or swelling, or if your cat seems very distressed or disinterested in eating. If you notice any of these signs, it's important to contact a vet immediately.
To better address your cat’s specific needs, consider booking a video consult with Dial A Vet.
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