Cat not eating after spaying:Why won't my cat eat after being spayed?

Q: Why won't my cat eat after being spayed?

A: It is common for cats to have a reduced appetite for 24 to 48 hours after spaying due to anesthesia, surgical stress, and pain. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), anesthesia can cause nausea and drowsiness, while pain may suppress appetite. The Cornell Feline Health Center notes that most cats resume normal eating within two days. However, if your cat refuses food for more than 48 hours, contact your veterinarian, as prolonged anorexia can lead to serious liver complications, especially in overweight cats.

Q: How long is it normal for a cat not to eat after spaying?

A: Most cats will start eating within 24 to 48 hours after spaying. The American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) states that a temporary loss of appetite is normal due to anesthesia and surgical recovery. The Cornell Feline Health Center advises that if a cat has not eaten within 48 hours, it should be evaluated by a veterinarian. Some cats may take up to 72 hours if they are particularly sensitive to anesthesia or pain medications. Prolonged anorexia beyond 48–72 hours can be dangerous and requires prompt veterinary attention.

Q: What can I do to encourage my cat to eat after spaying?

A: To encourage eating, offer small amounts of highly palatable wet food, such as tuna or chicken baby food (without onions or garlic), warmed to body temperature. The AVMA recommends providing a quiet, comfortable space and minimizing stress. The Cornell Feline Health Center suggests hand-feeding or using a syringe to offer a small amount of food if the cat is reluctant. Ensure fresh water is available. If your cat still refuses to eat after 24 hours, call your vet. Never force-feed, as this can cause aspiration.

Q: When should I worry if my cat isn't eating after spaying?

A: You should worry if your cat has not eaten for more than 48 hours after spaying. According to the AVMA, prolonged anorexia can lead to hepatic lipidosis, a serious liver condition, especially in overweight cats. Additional warning signs include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, fever, or signs of pain such as vocalizing or hiding. The Cornell Feline Health Center advises immediate veterinary care if your cat shows these symptoms. Also, if your cat is not drinking water for more than 24 hours, that is an emergency. Always consult your veterinarian for personalized advice.

Q: Is it normal for a cat to vomit and not eat after spaying?

A: Vomiting immediately after spaying can be a normal reaction to anesthesia, but persistent vomiting combined with not eating is not normal. The AVMA notes that anesthesia can cause nausea and vomiting for up to 24 hours. However, if vomiting continues beyond 24 hours or is accompanied by refusal to eat, it may indicate a complication such as pain, infection, or reaction to medication. The Cornell Feline Health Center recommends contacting your veterinarian if vomiting persists or if your cat is not eating. Dehydration is a risk, so monitor water intake as well.

Dialogue about

Common scenarios of "Cat not eating after spaying"

【Veterinarian】 Hello, this is Dr. Smith from the veterinary clinic. How can I help you today?

【Cat Owner】 Hi Dr. Smith. My cat Luna was spayed two days ago, and she hasn't eaten anything since. I'm really worried.

【Veterinarian】 I understand your concern. It's not uncommon for cats to have a decreased appetite after surgery due to anesthesia, pain, or stress. But let's monitor closely. Is she drinking water?

【Cat Owner】 She's drinking a little, but not much. She seems lethargic and just wants to sleep.

【Veterinarian】 Lethargy is expected for the first 24-48 hours. However, if she's not eating by tomorrow, we should be more proactive. Have you tried offering her favorite wet food or something smelly like tuna?

【Cat Owner】 I tried her usual wet food and some tuna, but she just sniffs it and walks away.

【Veterinarian】 That's concerning. Is she showing any signs of pain, like vocalizing, hiding, or being aggressive when touched near the incision?

【Cat Owner】 She's hiding under the bed and hisses when I try to check the incision. I think she's in pain.

【Veterinarian】 Pain can definitely suppress appetite. Did we send you home with pain medication? If so, are you giving it as directed?

【Cat Owner】 Yes, we got meloxicam, and I've been giving it once a day. But she still seems uncomfortable.

【Veterinarian】 It might not be enough. I recommend bringing her in today so we can assess her pain level and possibly adjust medication. Also, we can check for any complications like infection or internal bleeding.

【Cat Owner】 Okay, I'll bring her in. What time can you see her?

【Veterinarian】 We have an opening at 3 PM today. Please bring her in. In the meantime, try to keep her warm and comfortable, and don't force-feed her.

【Cat Owner】 Alright, we'll be there. Is there anything else I should watch for?

【Veterinarian】 Watch for vomiting, diarrhea, swelling or discharge from the incision, or difficulty breathing. If any of these occur, call us immediately.

【Cat Owner】 Got it. I'll see you at 3. Thank you, Dr. Smith.

【Veterinarian】 You're welcome. We'll take good care of Luna. See you soon.

【Cat Owner】 Hi Dr. Smith, we're here. Luna is still not eating.

【Veterinarian】 Thanks for coming in. Let me examine her. I'll check her hydration, temperature, and incision site. Based on that, we'll decide on treatment.

【Cat Owner】 Okay, please help her. I'm so worried she might not make it.