Stitches

How do I care for a kitten post operation?

My little kitten has been neutered and she is wearing a collar and I would really appreciate some advise on what to do for the next 10 days until her stitches come out. I really don't want her to be in pain but I am worried about what to do.

Public Comments

1. She'll be fine. It's a common procedure and she won't be in too much pain, just a little discomfort from the stitches likely. Just be careful that she doesn't scratch them or bite them, and make sure she doesn't run around too much or jump too high. That might stretch the stitches or rip them out. Keep an eye on them and make sure they don't look like they're getting too irritated, infected, or bleeding. If you have other cats, keep them away from her for a few days so they don't rile her up when she's trying to rest. She'll probably be sleeping a lot more until the anesthetic wears off, but she'll go back to normal soon!
2. Let her do whatever doesn't seem to cause her pain, keep her from removing her stitches, and simply ensure that her healing time is minimised by keeping them clean and disinfected.
3. You said NEUTERED, but then she & stitches. I am going to assume meant spayed. 1) Animals process pain differently than we do. KITTENS usually forget about the surgery w/in 24 hours - if it takes that long. I have had kittens bouncing & playing the evening following their surgery - as if nothing had happened... I have a great vet. 2) The stupid collar is probably bothering her worse than anything else. If she is not picking at her stitches, it is an added/wasteful expence for you. See how she behaves w/out it while you can watch her. 3) Watch the incision for swelling or drainage & notify the vet if you notice anything unusual.