How to Pick Up Cat After Spaying

Spaying is a routine surgical procedure that removes a female cat’s reproductive organs, offering numerous health and behavioral benefits. However, after this surgery, your cat will need extra care and attention to ensure a smooth recovery. One of the most common concerns among pet owners is how to pick up and handle their cat after spaying, without causing discomfort or harm. This article will provide a comprehensive guide to picking up a cat after being spayed.

The Importance of Post-Surgery Care

After being spayed, your cat will be sore and sensitive in the abdominal area where the incision was made. The procedure can leave your cat feeling disoriented, weak, and uncomfortable, particularly in the first few days. Providing proper post-operative care, including gentle handling, is crucial to avoiding complications such as pain, stress, or even reopening of the incision site. 

Knowing how to lift and carry your cat safely is a vital part of her recovery process.

Also Read:
The Optimal Timing for Cat Spaying
When Can I Get My Cat Spayed After Having Kittens

Why Careful Handling is Necessary

The incision made during the spaying surgery typically takes 10 to 14 days to heal. During this period, your cat’s activity must be restricted, and improper handling could lead to complications such as:

• Pain and discomfort:
  The abdominal area will be very sensitive, and improper lifting can exacerbate this.
• Opening of stitches:
  Rough handling may cause the incision to reopen, leading to infection or the need for additional surgical repair.
• Increased stress:
  Lifting your cat incorrectly may cause her to become anxious, making her recovery more difficult.

How to Pick Up Cat After Spaying

Steps to Safely Pick Up a Cat After Spaying

Step 1: Assess Your Cat’s Comfort Level

Before you attempt to pick up your cat, observe her behavior. A cat that is resting, calm, or seeking comfort from you is easier to handle than one that is anxious or hiding. Always approach your cat slowly and avoid making sudden movements that could startle her.

Step 2: Support the Entire Body

When picking up your cat, it’s essential to support her entire body, especially avoiding any pressure on the abdominal area where the incision is located. Here’s how to do it:

• One hand under the chest:
  Place one hand gently but securely under your cat’s chest, just behind her front legs.
• Other hand under the hind legs:
  With your other hand, support your cat’s hind legs from underneath. Make sure you’re lifting her in a way that keeps her body level.
• Avoid pressure on the abdomen:
  Be mindful not to let any of your hands or fingers press on her belly. Keeping her body level helps distribute her weight evenly, preventing strain on the incision site.

Step 3: Hold Your Cat Close

Once lifted, hold your cat close to your body for additional support. Holding her close minimizes movement, which can reduce discomfort. Ensure she feels secure, as wiggling or sudden movements could stress her and potentially disturb the surgical area.

Step 4: Lower Your Cat Gently

When placing your cat down, do so gently. Make sure her feet are firmly on the surface before releasing her, ensuring she doesn’t jump or strain her abdominal muscles.

Step 5: Minimize Lifting and Carrying

Try to limit the number of times you lift your cat during her recovery period. Encourage her to rest in low, accessible areas where she won’t need to jump, climb, or be picked up frequently.

Tips for Managing Your Cat’s Movement After Spaying

Create a Comfortable Recovery Space

It’s important to create a quiet, comfortable space for your cat to recover. This should be a confined area with soft bedding, food, water, and a litter box within easy reach. Avoid stairs, high surfaces, or areas where she might be tempted to jump.

Limit Physical Activity

For the first 7 to 10 days after spaying, your cat’s physical activity should be limited. Keep her indoors and discourage jumping, running, or rough play. Too much movement can put strain on the incision, leading to complications.

Use a Cone or Recovery Suit

To prevent your cat from licking or biting her incision, a cone (also known as an Elizabethan collar) or a recovery suit may be recommended by your veterinarian. These tools help protect the surgical site from irritation or infection.

What to Watch for During Recovery

Keep a close eye on your cat for any signs of complications. After the spaying procedure, it’s normal for her to be a little groggy and less active, but certain symptoms may indicate the need for veterinary attention:

• Swelling, redness, or discharge around the incision.
• Excessive licking or biting at the incision site.
• Lethargy, vomiting, or loss of appetite beyond the first 24 hours.
• Difficulty walking or standing.

If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your veterinarian immediately.

When Can You Pick Up Your Cat Normally?

After about two weeks, your cat’s incision should be fully healed. Your veterinarian will usually provide a follow-up check-up to ensure proper healing. Once given the all-clear, you can start handling your cat more normally. However, always be mindful of her behavior—if she still seems sensitive, continue to lift her carefully.

FAQs 

How soon after spaying can I pick up my cat?

You can pick up your cat after spaying, but it’s important to do so with great care. Ideally, wait at least 24-48 hours after surgery to allow her to rest and recover before handling her. When picking her up, make sure to avoid pressure on her abdominal area.

How can I comfort my cat after spaying surgery?

To comfort your cat after spaying, create a calm, quiet recovery space with soft bedding and limited movement. Gently pet her and speak soothingly, but avoid handling her too much in the first few days. Ensure she has access to food, water, and a litter box without needing to move far.

What should I do if my cat refuses to rest after spaying?

If your cat refuses to rest and is too active after spaying, consider confining her to a small, quiet room where she can’t jump or run. Use a recovery suit or cone to prevent her from licking the incision, and keep her entertained with gentle, stationary activities such as toys or catnip.

How long should I keep my cat indoors after spaying?

Keep your cat indoors for at least 10 to 14 days after the surgery to ensure the incision heals properly. Outdoor environments can expose her to dirt, bacteria, or other hazards that may increase the risk of infection or injury.

Can I bathe my cat after spaying surgery?

It’s best to avoid bathing your cat for at least two weeks after spaying. Bathing can expose the incision site to moisture, increasing the risk of infection. If your cat needs cleaning, use a damp cloth to gently wipe her fur, avoiding the surgical area.

Conclusion

Picking up your cat after spaying requires extra care and patience. By following the proper steps to lift her safely and creating a comfortable recovery environment, you can help your cat heal faster and avoid complications. Always observe your cat’s behavior and be cautious when handling her, especially in the first few days post-surgery. If in doubt, consult your veterinarian for additional guidance on post-operative care.