Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Shorthair | Male | neutered | 11 years old
11 year old cat got one tooth pulled a week ago. We had to keep him at vet for two nights because he was very weak and not eating. Since he's been back home, he's still lethargic, pupils are always dilated, only eating a little canned food and no dry food, drinking plenty of water but no bowel movements only urination. He doesn't seem like himself and his movement and strength isn't 100%. Why hasn't he recovered yet and what could be wrong with him?
1 Answer
Published on November 17th, 2017
Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! I'm sorry to hear Squeak hasn't been feeling well after a tooth extraction. With older cats, it sometimes can take a couple of days for them to recover from anesthesia, depending on the medications that were used. Did Squeak have any bloodwork run before his procedure? If he had an underlying kidney or liver issue, it could explain some of the signs that you are seeing now. If he is still on pain medications for his tooth extraction, it could also be that he is weak if the medication is affecting him strongly. If he hasn't had bloodwork done, I would recommend checking his liver and kidney function, as well as screening for diabetes, all of which could be adversely affecting him. Additionally, there are appetite stimulants for cats that can be given post-surgery to help kickstart them into eating normally again. I would recommend Squeak be re-evaluated by his veterinarian and have any testing done that may be necessary to start treatment to get him back on track. Good luck!
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