My dog won't eat after surgery. Is it pain, e-collar, or recovery?

Question

Hi! Dewey had a surgery last Thursday to remove a growth on her head. Her last pain med was given yesterday morning. She was not energetic but ate up till this morning. As far as I can tell she didn’t eat today but looks like she drank some water. She would take a few treats but not interested in food at all. What could cause this? Pain? Depression from the e-collar? Or something else? Thanks. Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Shorthair | Female | spayed | 9 years and 6 months old | 12 lbs

Dr. Davis · Accepted Answer

It may be a combination of factors. Certainly as you mentioned the e collar may be bothering her, and she may just be recovering. I’m not that concerned about pain as it’s been several days since the surgery and she should no longer be in acute pain. I would take off the e collar when you are watching her, then play with her, brush her or interact with her with playing with toys etc. If she becomes more active she’ll get hungrier and will start back eating. As long as she’s drinking and eating treats you’re fine to give her another day or so to see if she returns to normal. If she still isn’t eating and is lethargic then please take her back for a recheck. She may have an infection from the surgery but that is unlikely. Be patient and I expect her to be better in a day or so. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to help you care for Dewey.

My dog won't eat after surgery. Is it pain, e-collar, or recovery?

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