Taking Care of Stitches in Cat​

When a cat undergoes surgery or experiences an injury, the healing process involves careful aftercare, particularly if stitches (also called sutures) are involved. Proper wound care is essential to ensure the stitches remain intact, the wound heals correctly, and complications like infection are avoided. This guide will cover everything you need to know, including how cats get stitches, caring for them, the healing process, and managing concerns such as licking or going outdoors.

     

How Do Cats Get Stitches?

Stitches are used to close wounds in a variety of situations. Understanding why your cat might need them helps emphasize the importance of proper care. Below are some common reasons:

1. Spay/Neuter Surgery (Related: The Optimal Timing For Cat Spaying)

• This is the most routine procedure in cats. Females are spayed to remove the ovaries and uterus, while males are neutered to remove the testes. Both procedures require incisions that are closed with stitches.

2. Injuries and Trauma

• Cats, especially those that roam outdoors, are prone to injuries from fights, sharp objects, or accidents. Deep wounds or lacerations often require sutures to promote healing and reduce scarring.

3. Abscess Drainage

• Fights with other cats can result in abscesses, which are pockets of pus that must be drained. After draining, the wound may be stitched to aid in faster healing.

4. Tumor or Lump Removal

• If a cat develops a lump or tumor, a vet may surgically remove it. The incision site is then closed with stitches.

5. Orthopedic Surgery

• For cats with fractures or joint issues, orthopedic surgery may be necessary. These procedures involve more extensive suturing to close deeper layers of tissue.

Taking Care of Stitches in Cats: How to Do It Properly

Post-surgical care is critical to ensuring a smooth and uncomplicated healing process. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Immediate Post-Surgery Care

• Keep the Cat Warm and Comfortable: Anesthesia can cause a drop in body temperature, so provide a warm, quiet place for recovery.
• Monitor for Side Effects: Watch for lethargy, vomiting, or unusual behavior after surgery and report any concerns to your vet.

2. Daily Inspection of Stitches

• Twice-Daily Checks: Examine the incision site in the morning and evening. Look for signs of healing or potential issues.
• Signs of Trouble: Redness, swelling, bleeding, or oozing may indicate an infection. Contact your veterinarian immediately if you notice these.

3. Maintaining Hygiene

• Keep the Area Dry: Avoid bathing your cat until the stitches are removed or have dissolved.
• Clean Environment: Ensure bedding is clean and free of dust or debris. Use a disinfectant approved by your vet to clean any surrounding areas.

4. Administer Medications

• Pain Management: Use prescribed painkillers to keep your cat comfortable, but avoid human medications like aspirin or ibuprofen, which are toxic to cats.
• Antibiotics: Follow the vet’s directions to prevent or treat infections. Ensure the full course is completed.

Cat Stitches Healing Stages (With Descriptions)

Understanding the healing process can help you gauge whether your cat is recovering properly. Here’s a breakdown of the typical stages:

Stage 1: Inflammatory Phase (Days 1–3)

• Appearance: The wound may be red and slightly swollen, with a small amount of clear fluid possible.
• Behavior: Your cat may be tired or less active due to anesthesia and discomfort.
• Care Tip: Ensure your cat rests and limit movement.

Stage 2: Proliferation Phase (Days 4–7)

• Appearance: Swelling should subside, and the incision edges will begin to close.
• Behavior: Your cat’s energy should start to return to normal.
• Care Tip: Prevent licking or scratching as the area may become itchy.

Stage 3: Maturation Phase (Days 8–14)

• Appearance: Scabbing forms, and the incision is mostly closed. Scars may be visible.
• Behavior: Your cat should behave normally but avoid rough play.
• Care Tip: Schedule the removal of stitches if they are not dissolvable.

Stage 4: Full Healing (Day 15 and Beyond)

• Appearance: The incision is completely healed with little to no scarring.
• Behavior: Full return to normal activity.
• Care Tip: A final vet visit may be necessary to confirm complete healing.

How Long Does It Take for Stitches to Heal in a Cat?

On average, stitches in cats take 10 to 14 days to heal, but the timeline can vary based on factors such as:

• Age and Health: Younger, healthier cats tend to heal faster.
• Type of Procedure: Orthopedic or more invasive surgeries may require longer healing.
• Suture Material: Dissolvable stitches may take longer to dissolve completely, often up to 4 weeks.

How to Stop a Cat from Licking Stitches

Licking can interfere with healing and lead to infections or dehiscence (reopening of the wound). Here are effective ways to prevent it:

1. Elizabethan Collar (E-Collar)

• Often called the "cone of shame," it is the most effective method to prevent licking.

2. Soft or Inflatable Collars

• These are more comfortable alternatives to the traditional hard plastic cone and can still effectively prevent licking.

3. Recovery Suit

• A snug-fitting suit covers the surgical area and prevents access to the stitches.

4. Bitter Spray

• Some vets recommend applying a bitter-tasting spray near the stitches (but never directly on the wound) to deter licking.

Can a Cat with Stitches Go Outside?

No, it’s essential to keep a cat with stitches indoors. Outdoor environments pose numerous risks, including:

• Bacterial Contamination: Soil, grass, and other surfaces may introduce bacteria to the wound.
• Physical Trauma: Active outdoor play can cause the stitches to tear or the wound to reopen.
• Exposure to Elements: Rain or dirt can irritate the wound and delay healing.

Additional Tips for Post-Surgery Care

1. Provide a Calm Environment:
   Avoid loud noises or interactions that could stress your cat.
2. Offer Easy-to-Digest Food:
   Anesthesia can upset a cat’s stomach, so provide bland or special recovery food if needed.
3. Hydration:
   Ensure your cat has access to fresh water at all times. ( Also Read: Cat Dehydration Symptoms)
4. Follow-Up Vet Visits:
   Always adhere to scheduled check-ups to monitor healing progress.

Conclusion

Caring for a cat with stitches requires patience, vigilance, and adherence to veterinary advice. By monitoring the wound, preventing licking, keeping your cat indoors, and providing a calm environment, you can ensure a smooth recovery. Always consult your veterinarian if you notice any signs of infection or if you have concerns about your cat’s healing process. With proper care, your feline companion will be back to their playful self in no time.