Cat after getting spayed

[sydneya28]

I just got my year old cat spayed two days ago.. She has been sleeping a lot which I know is normal. She stayed over night at the vet and ate as soon as I brought her home, and ate this morning also, but has not used the bathroom at all. I have taken her e-collar off to eat and leave it off for a minute to see if she will use the bathroom but only licks and cleans herself. I have carried her to her litter box but she just jumps out. Her mood is fine, and she isn't mad or ill, she just will not walk with the e-collar on, but she walks backwards. I am only concerned about her not using the bathroom at all. Is this normal?

[garrettmarvel]

You are right, it's quite normal if she is a bit lethargic and want to sleep, she will also be grumpy for a few days, and it also normal that she’s not using the litter box, it will be awhile before she poops again, don’t be worried if the litter box is empty.

Best of luck.

[CML2014]

Hi Sy,

Place the litter box right next to where she is sleeping. Lots of cats (mine) are very squirrely about being watched when they go to the bathroom. So place her bed and box in a room with little or no traffic. See what happens.

[opus88]

no staples don't make a difference, should be just fine without a collar just keep an eye on the incision not becoming overly red or irritated looking...some red is normal for the first few days

I would call and speak to your Vet since its been over 24 hrs already...

she IS DRINKING WATER isn't she? or at least eating wet food that already has lots of water in it

[Jade59]

The staples vs stitches don't make a difference as far as Opus' advice.  The point of the cone is so kitty doesn't pull the stitches/staples out.  NO cat tolerates the cone well.  Your girl really should be fine w/o it, but if it makes you feel better, leave it off while you are home and able to supervise.  Your girl will likely use the box pretty quickly.  

Keep us posted. :)

[sydneya28]

Thank you for your fast reply!! Yes it has been over 24 hours since she has been home. I think I will wait until tonight and see if she goes then. She's very independent and I think just doesn't like me putting her in the litter box.
Also, she has staples instead of stitches. Does that make any kind of difference?

[opus88]

so she has been home for at least 24 hrs from what I understand and has not used the litter box within that time, can you feel her bladder and usually you will tell if it is really full....a half full bladder is abt the size of a walnut...

I wouldn't get alarmed just YET, however if she doesn't at least have a pee by tonight or for sure tomorrow a.m than she needs to see her Vet again

I would leave the e-collar off...I have NO use for those things, most cats will only lick at their incision and this IMO promotes healing, as long as she isn't pulling at her stitches she's fine

Its best to call your Vet and talk directly to them when you have any concerns esp. after surgery...and a followup appointment check up there should be NO charge

good luck, let us know ok