Surgeries in cats: Procedure, risks, aftercare
Surgeries are an indispensable part of the therapeutic options in modern veterinary medicine. Especially in cats, surgical procedures are performed not only in emergencies, but also routinely – for example, for castration, in the case of tumors or to remove foreign bodies. A comprehensive understanding of the procedures, possible risks and postoperative care is essential for owners. In this article, you will learn everything important about surgery in cats, optimized using central veterinary keywords: castration, anesthesia, pain management, wound healing, sterilization, soft tissue surgery, postoperative monitoring, surgical complications, orthopedic surgeries and minimally invasive surgery.
The most important thing in advance
Surgeries in cats are now safe and medically highly standardized. Risks can be minimized through structured preparation, the choice of individually adapted anesthesia, consistent pain management and careful aftercare. Wound healing is usually uncomplicated if hygiene and rest are guaranteed. Postoperative monitoring is particularly important in order to detect complications early. If you are well informed, an operation can not only save your cat’s life, but also sustainably improve its quality of life.
When is surgery necessary for cats?
The necessity of an operation can be prophylactic, diagnostic or therapeutic in nature.
Castration and sterilization Castration is one of the most common procedures in cats. In male cats, the testicles are removed, in female cats usually the ovaries, sometimes also the uterus. This procedure not only aims to avoid uncontrolled reproduction, but also reduces hormone-related behavioral problems and lowers the risk of certain types of tumors.
Tumor removals A distinction is made between benign and malignant tumors. Malignant Tumors such as fibrosarcomas or mammary Tumors must be surgically removed early. In many cases, the operation also serves for diagnostics – e.g. through a biopsy.
Dental surgeries Cats often suffer from FORL (Feline Odontoclastic Resorptive Lesions), which require extraction of the affected teeth. This is always done under general anesthesia and with intensive pain management.
Foreign body removals Swallowed objects such as threads or small toys can lead to intestinal obstruction. If endoscopic measures are not possible, soft tissue surgery is unavoidable.
Orthopedic surgeries Surgical stabilization is often required for fractures, dislocations or cruciate ligament ruptures. Plates, screws or pins are used. Orthopedic surgeries belong in the hands of specialized surgeons.
Abdominal surgical procedures Bladder stones (uroliths), spleen removals or uterine inflammations (pyometra) are classic indications for abdominal surgery. In specialized clinics, this can increasingly be done minimally invasively.
The procedure of an operation in cats
Preoperative examination Before the procedure, a detailed general examination is carried out, including a blood count, kidney and liver values, and, if necessary, an ECG and imaging diagnostics. These steps are crucial for the selection of the appropriate anesthesia.
Preparation of anesthesia Cats must remain fasting for at least 8 hours before the surgery. Water may be offered up to two hours beforehand. The anesthesia is planned individually, taking into account age, general condition and underlying diseases.
Induction and monitoring The anesthesia is usually initiated with an injection, followed by inhalation anesthesia via a tube. During the operation, the team continuously monitors breathing, heart rate, oxygen saturation, blood pressure and body temperature.
The surgical procedure The operation is performed under sterile conditions. Depending on the type of procedure, it lasts from a few minutes (e.g. castration) to several hours (e.g. tumor operations, osteosynthesis).
Recovery phase and postoperative monitoring After the operation, the cat is brought to a warm, quiet area. There, the team monitors vital signs and behavior until it wakes up safely again.
Risks of cat surgery
Anesthesia risks Although modern anesthesia is very safe, there are residual risks – especially in older or multimorbid cats. Circulatory failure, respiratory arrest or overheating can occur, but are detected early by monitoring.
Intraoperative complications Bleeding, injuries to neighboring organs or allergic reactions are rare but potentially serious complications.
Postoperative infections and healing problems Even if all hygiene rules are observed, wound infections can occur. Other complications are seromas, suture dehiscence or chronic inflammatory conditions.
Behavioral abnormalities Some cats react to anesthesia with disorientation or restlessness. These symptoms usually disappear within 24 to 48 hours.
Aftercare and wound healing
Pain therapy and medication Effective pain management is crucial for wound healing. Opioids, NSAIDs and, if necessary, local anesthetics are used. Antibiotics are also often indicated for wounds at risk of infection.
Feeding and drinking Cats are usually allowed to eat again 6 to 12 hours after the surgery. Easily digestible, high-calorie food is recommended. Fresh water must be available at all times.
Wound control and hygiene measures The suture should be checked daily. Redness, excessive swelling or discharge are alarm signals. A leak protection by means of a neck collar or body prevents self-injury.
Immobilization and mobility control Cats should not have access to stairs, furniture or outdoor access for several days. In the case of orthopedic procedures, weeks of rest may be required.
Follow-up checks Depending on the type of surgery, follow-up appointments are scheduled for suture removal, X-rays or blood tests. These serve to avoid complications and monitor progress.
Costs and insurance
The costs of an operation depend on the GOT (schedule of fees for veterinarians). Emergencies, night and weekend treatments can be charged at up to 4 times the rate. Surgical insurance often covers a large part of the costs.
Examples of surgery costs:
- Castration male cat: 80–120 €
- Castration female cat: 150–250 €
- Dental surgery: 150–600 €
- Tumor surgery: from 300 €
- Foreign body removal: from 600 €
FAQs – Frequently asked questions about surgery in cats
1. How long does wound healing take after surgery? Usually 10 to 14 days, longer for complicated procedures.
2. Does my cat have to get antibiotics after surgery? Only if there is an increased risk of infection. The veterinarian decides depending on the type of surgery.
3. Is castration also useful for indoor cats? Yes, to avoid heat, hormonal Tumors and marking behavior.
4. What to do if the cat does not eat after the surgery? Up to 24 hours this is not unusual. After that, a visit to the veterinarian is advisable.
5. How do I recognize pain after the surgery? Signs include loss of appetite, altered behavior, meowing, protective posture / guarding posture or uncleanliness.
6. When can my cat go outside again? At the earliest after complete wound healing, usually after 10–14 days.
7. What happens if my cat scratches the suture open? Definitely go to the veterinarian. A re-suturing or wound care may be necessary.
8. Is a minimally invasive surgery better? Yes, if available. It reduces pain, complications and healing time.
9. Can I finance the surgery myself or do I need insurance? Surgical insurance is recommended, but not mandatory. Installment payment is possible in many places.
10. How can I optimally prepare my cat for the surgery? Familiar environment, stress-free transport, timely fasting and open communication with the veterinarian help enormously.
Literature
BSAVA. (2020). BSAVA Manual of Canine and Feline Surgical Principles. British Small Animal Veterinary Association.
German Veterinary Medical Society (DVG), VAINS Specialist Group. (2016). Guideline for Anesthesiological Care in Dogs and Cats (Long Version). Giessen: DVG. https://www.tierzahnaerzte.de/images/Tierzahnaerzte/Offizielle_Stellungnahmen/16-08-17-Leitlinie_Anaesthesie_bei_Hund_und_Katze_Langversion_17_08_2016.pdf
ECVS – European College of Veterinary Surgeons. (2023). Guidelines for Best Surgical Practice in Small Animal Surgery. https://www.ecvs.org
Fossum, T. W. (2023). Small Animal Surgery (6th ed.). Elsevier.
Grimm, K. A., Lamont, L. A., Tranquilli, W. J., Greene, S. A., & Robertson, S. A. (Eds.). (2021). Veterinary Anesthesia and Analgesia: The Fifth Edition of Lumb and Jones. Wiley-Blackwell.
Vetsuisse Faculty Zurich. (2022). Guidelines for Soft Tissue Surgery in Small Animals. University of Zurich. https://www.vet.uzh.ch