Post-Surgery Questions

Cat Swelling After Surgery

I have a six-month-old, female kitten. She has been spayed recently, but went back to the vet because of a big bump near her stitches. My vet took X-rays and then opened her up again to see if anything was wrong. He didn't find anything, so he closed her up. It is the next day and we have her back home, but the moment I saw her, I saw something strange. Her neck is huge, and her ribs and chest are much bigger. She is breathing okay but sometimes I hear a hiccup noise. She ate a bit and drank a lot and used her litter box. She is sleeping now. When she came home after the first surgery, she was not this swollen around her neck. What could be wrong?

~~Mary

Expert Reply

Hi, Mary,

Although a little swelling at the incision sight can be normal and some cats to react to material used for sutures, this should be minor. Uneven swelling, such as in her neck and chest area indicate that she may have a local infection that is spreading. Occasionally, incisions also cause an abscess to develop which must be drained and treated to prevent further infection as well.

If you feel the swelling is excessive or the area feels hot when you touch it, you should really consult the veterinarian. Do not worry that they may think you are an overprotective cat mom. It is better to be safe than to regret not taking her back in. Also, don't hesitate to get a second opinion if you are not comfortable with the treatment she has received or uncertain if you are being told all the facts.

Things to watch for that would necessitate a trip to the emergency vet:

• Extreme lethargy
• Cat won't eat or drink water
• Heavy bleeding
• Loss of consciousness

I hope your kitten feels better soon.

~~Lori