8 Signs of Infection After Neutering Cat & How to Help

Neutering is a prevalent practice among cat owners. In the United States alone, approximately 80-90% of domestic cats undergo the procedure. As a common surgery, neutering is generally considered safe. The complication rate is low. Nonetheless, post-operative infections can occur.

Detecting these complications is crucial to ensure a healthy recovery for the feline patient. Common signs of infection include redness, swelling, discharge, and a foul odor at the incision site. Behavioral changes may also indicate an underlying infection. These changes can include lethargy, loss of appetite, and signs of pain. Timely veterinary intervention is crucial. Untreated infections can progress to more severe conditions, such as sepsis.

Methods for Closing Neutering Incisions in Cats

Veterinarians often opt for absorbable sutures, which dissolve over time. These sutures don’t require removal. Materials such as polyglycolic acid, polyglactin, and polydioxanone are used to make these sutures. The absorption process takes approximately 60 to 90 days. This method offers adequate tensile strength during healing. It also reduces infection risk and minimizes animal discomfort.

Tissue adhesives present a modern alternative to sutures. They provide a faster, less invasive way to close neutering incisions in cats. Cyanoacrylate compounds are used to make these adhesives. This adhesive boasts a 95% success rate in closing surgical incisions without complications. It is popular due to its quick application, reduced inflammation, and elimination of suture removal.

Surgical staples and metallic clips offer another effective method for closing neutering incisions in cats. These devices ensure strong, uniform wound closure. They are particularly useful in situations requiring rapid closure, such as emergency surgeries. Surgical staples are made from stainless steel or titanium. They cause minimal tissue reaction. Metallic clips offer secure closure while causing less tissue trauma. Though these methods necessitate removal after healing, they have demonstrated a reduced risk of wound dehiscence and improved healing times compared to traditional sutures.

What Are The Signs of Infection After Neutering A Cat?

We strongly suggest considering neutering your cat, but be mindful of the potential risk of an infection at the surgical site. This can occur when harmful bacteria from your cat’s mouth or surroundings infiltrate the recovering wound.

Regrettably, an infection may hinder your cat’s healing process. Therefore, you should recognize the symptoms of infection to monitor closely. In the following section, we have elaborated on these symptoms to help you identify an infection promptly and inform your veterinarian:

1. Excessive Swelling or Redness

Swelling and redness are normal to some extent. This is because they indicate the body’s natural inflammatory response to the surgical procedure. However, excessive swelling or redness spreading beyond the immediate vicinity of the incision could be a sign of infection. In some cases, the swelling may be accompanied by warmth or firmness when touched. This further suggests the presence of an infection.

You should closely monitor the incision site for any changes during the first few days following the surgery. If the swelling or redness persists beyond three to five days or worsens, consulting a veterinarian is crucial. Timely intervention can prevent the infection from spreading and causing more severe complications, such as abscess formation or systemic infections.

2. Discharge or Pus Coming from the Wound

A small amount of clear or slightly pink-tinged fluid may be observed within the first 24 hours after surgery. However, it should not persist or increase in volume. Pus, which is typically yellow, green, or brown in color, indicates that the body is fighting off an infection. Discharge that is cloudy, thick, or foul-smelling is also indicative of an infected surgical site and requires immediate attention from a veterinarian.

You should check the incision site daily for any signs of discharge or pus. If any abnormal discharge is observed, consult with a veterinarian promptly to determine the appropriate course of action. The veterinarian may clean the wound, remove any infected tissue or sutures, and prescribe antibiotics to help combat the infection.

3. Foul Smell

When bacteria infiltrate the wound, they can produce a strong, unpleasant odor as they multiply and break down tissue. This malodor is not a normal part of the healing process and should be taken seriously. If you detect a persistent or worsening foul smell coming from the incision area, consult a veterinarian as soon as possible to address the issue.

Infections at the surgical site can manifest in various ways, and a foul smell is just one of the possible signs. Detecting any of these signs early can help ensure the cat receives the necessary care in a timely manner, minimizing the risk of further complications.

4. Lethargy or Decreased Activity

Some level of lethargy is expected during the initial recovery phase. But, a prolonged or excessive decrease in activity may point to a problem. Lethargy in this context is characterized by the cat’s reluctance to move, its prolonged periods of rest, and a general lack of interest in engaging in normal activities such as playing or exploring.

You should be observant of their cat’s behavior and energy levels during the post-operative period. If the cat continues to exhibit lethargy beyond the first few days after surgery or appears increasingly listless, it might suggest that the cat is experiencing discomfort or complications related to the healing process.

5. Loss of Appetite or Refusal to Eat

This can be a concerning sign that something might be amiss in the recovery process. It is not uncommon for a cat to have a reduced appetite immediately following surgery, but this should typically improve within 24 to 48 hours as the cat starts to regain its strength and energy. However, if the cat continues to refuse food or shows a significant decrease in appetite for an extended period, it could be an indication that the cat is experiencing an infection at the surgical site.

You should pay close attention to their cat’s eating habits. If the cat does not resume eating within a couple of days, or if their appetite remains poor, it is important to consider other factors that might be causing this issue.

6. Constant Licking or Chewing at the Incision Site

When a cat persistently licks or chews at the incision site after being neutered, it might be experiencing discomfort or irritation related to the wound. Excessive attention to the incision site is a cause for concern, as it could suggest that the healing process is not progressing as it should. The cat’s behavior is a response to the discomfort or irritation in the affected area.

Excessive licking or chewing can interfere with the healing process, causing further irritation, inflammation, or even tissue damage. In some cases, this behavior might be a reaction to sutures or an allergic response to materials used in the surgical procedure. Additionally, it can introduce bacteria from the cat’s mouth to the wound, which may lead to infection.

7. High Temperature or Fever

The normal body temperature for a healthy cat ranges from 100.4°F to 102.5°F (38°C to 39.2°C), and temperatures above this range are considered elevated. While a slight elevation in body temperature may be a normal response to the surgical procedure, a fever typically suggests that the cat’s immune system is actively fighting an infection or inflammation.

Fevers can manifest with other symptoms that may help pet owners identify a potential issue. These symptoms can include lethargy, loss of appetite, and increased heart rate. A feverish cat might also seek cooler areas or surfaces to lie on in an attempt to regulate its body temperature.

8. Vocalizing in Pain or Discomfort

Cats have a natural instinct to hide their pain. When they vocalize or exhibit overt signs of distress, it is essential to take these behaviors seriously. Painful vocalizations can include increased meowing, growling, or hissing. These sounds may be more pronounced when the incision site is touched or when the cat moves in a certain way.

In addition to vocalizing, cats may show other signs of discomfort. These can include changes in body posture, restlessness, or sensitivity around the surgical area. For example, a cat experiencing pain might assume a hunched or crouched position. They may avoid lying on the side where the incision is located. The cat could also be reluctant to jump or climb.

What to Do If Neutering Incision Site Becomes Infected

If you suspect that your cat’s neutering incision site has become infected, it’s essential to act promptly to prevent further complications. Begin by carefully cleaning the area with a mild, non-abrasive antiseptic solution, such as chlorhexidine, diluted in warm water. Gently dab the solution onto the incision site with a sterile gauze pad, being cautious not to cause your cat further discomfort. Keep the area dry and clean, and avoid using harsh or fragrant products that may exacerbate the infection.

When dealing with a potential infection, it’s always best to consult your veterinarian for an accurate diagnosis and professional guidance. Contact your vet as soon as you notice signs of infection and provide detailed information about your cat’s symptoms and overall condition. Your veterinarian may prescribe antibiotics, anti-inflammatory medication, or topical treatments to help manage the infection and alleviate any pain or discomfort your cat may be experiencing. Follow your vet’s instructions closely and maintain open communication throughout the treatment process.

How to Prevent an Infected Incision in Cats

Preventing an infected incision in cats is crucial to ensuring proper healing after surgery or injury. Here are some accurate and solid steps you can take to minimize the risk of infection:

• Follow your veterinarian’s instructions: Your vet will provide specific instructions on how to care for your cat’s incision. Make sure to follow these instructions closely.
• Keep the incision clean and dry: Gently clean the incision site with a mild, non-alcoholic antiseptic solution as directed by your vet. Keep the area dry and avoid applying ointments or creams unless advised by your vet.
• Use an Elizabethan collar: E-collar or a surgical recovery suit to prevent your cat from reaching the incision site. This will help prevent the introduction of bacteria and reduce the risk of infection.
• Limit your cat’s activity: Encourage your cat to rest and avoid jumping or engaging in any activities that could cause strain on the incision. You may need to confine your cat to a small, comfortable space during the recovery period.
• Monitor the incision for signs of infection: Check the incision site daily for redness, swelling, discharge, or a foul odor.
• Keep your cat’s living environment clean: Ensure your cat’s bedding, litter box, and surrounding area are clean and free of debris. This will help minimize the risk of introducing bacteria to the incision site.
• Administer medications as prescribed: If your veterinarian prescribes antibiotics or other medications for your cat, make sure to give them as directed and complete the entire course of treatment.
• Maintain proper nutrition and hydration: Provide your cat with a balanced diet and fresh water to support their immune system and promote healing.
• Schedule follow-up appointments: Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with your veterinarian to monitor your cat’s progress and address any concerns.