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Cat not eating or drinking after surgery: When to call the vet?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered | 4 years and 6 months old | 8.5 lbs

My cat had emergency surgery for an intestinal blockage on Friday. He came home yesterday and hasn't eaten or drank anything on his own. We've given him some rebound and a few mil. of water, but that's it. How long is okay to wait for him to eat before I have to take him back to the vet? I can't afford to take him back, but also don't want him to go down hill

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Emily, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on July 2nd, 2017

If possible I would contact the veterinarian that did the surgery to discuss any concerns they might have. I recommend monitoring Archibald closely continuing to offer him small amounts of food and water and following the discharge instructions given by your veterinarian. If he begins acting painful, weak, or has any vomiting then he needs to be seen by a veterinarian.

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