Limiting a cat’s physical activity following surgery is necessary for proper healing. Cats often conceal discomfort and attempt to resume strenuous activities too quickly, which can lead to serious complications. Unrestricted movement, especially running and jumping, stresses the incision site, potentially causing the wound to open (dehiscence) or delaying healing. The primary recovery period typically lasts 10 to 14 days for soft tissue surgeries, though orthopedic procedures may require confinement for weeks or months.
Setting Up the Confinement Area
Establishing a dedicated, safe confinement area is the first step in recovery. This space should be quiet, low-traffic, and isolated from other pets or young children. Confinement options include a large dog crate, a pet playpen, or a small, cat-proofed room like a bathroom.
If using a crate, ensure it is large enough for the cat to stretch out and turn around, even while wearing a collar. Provide soft, non-slip bedding, food and water bowls, and a litter box inside the area. Use non-tip bowls to prevent spills that could soil the bedding or dampen the incision site.
The litter box should be low-sided, or use a shallow baking tray, to minimize straining abdominal muscles when entering and exiting. If using a small room, remove or block access to all elevated surfaces, such as windowsills or counters, to discourage jumping. The veterinarian determines the duration of strict confinement, but expect a minimum of 10 to 14 days following routine procedures.
Techniques for Limiting Physical Activity
Active management is necessary, especially when the cat is out for supervised time. The goal is to prevent sudden, high-impact movements like running, leaping, or twisting, which place tension on sutures. If the cat is housed in a room, all high perches, including cat trees and tall furniture, should be removed or blocked.
Visual barriers, such as boxes or towels placed on windowsills, can discourage jumping onto elevated surfaces. If furniture cannot be removed, placing pet stairs or a ramp next to it creates smaller, safer steps. When handling the cat, always carry them securely, supporting their full weight to prevent straining the surgical site.
For cats resistant to confinement, providing mental enrichment manages their energy levels. Ground-level activities, such as food puzzles or gentle petting, help keep them calm and occupied. Reducing external stimuli, like loud noises or interactions with other pets, maintains a tranquil environment and prevents sudden bursts of activity.
Choosing and Using Recovery Collars and Suits
Wearable restraints are required to prevent the cat from licking or chewing the surgical incision, which can lead to infection or stitch removal. The plastic Elizabethan collar (E-collar) is effective because it prevents access to most areas of the body. However, these rigid cones can cause disorientation and make eating or navigating tight spaces difficult.
Alternatives to the plastic cone include soft collars, inflatable donut collars, and recovery suits. Soft collars are made of pliable fabric, offering a comfortable option while still restricting movement. Inflatable donut collars prevent the cat from reaching the incision but allow for better peripheral vision and easier eating and drinking.
Recovery suits are full-body garments that cover the torso incision directly while allowing the cat freedom of movement. A suit is typically the best choice for abdominal or trunk wounds, such as after a spay procedure. An E-collar is more effective for wounds on the head, neck, or limbs. Proper sizing is necessary to ensure the cat can still use the litter box, and owners must monitor the cat for signs of stress or discomfort.