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How long after cat surgery should I expect a bowel movement?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Shorthair | Female | spayed | 11 lbs

I had to take my 8.5yr old kitty in for emergency abdominal exploratory surgery on the night of 12/31. They opened her up but didn't have to do surgery on her intestines like they had thought. They kept her for two nights and I picked her up yesterday. She's been eating id bland canned cat food last night and today. She's going pee, but has yet to poop. When should I start being concerned about that? Thanks in advance!

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Elizabeth

Veterinarian

Published on January 3rd, 2019

I’m glad to hear that Kit is doing ok and I hope she continues to have a speedy recovery. I expect most pets to have a bowel movement within 1-3 days of the surgery. If she is eating well, things will eventually come through. If she does not have a bowel movement by tonight, I recommend to have her seen tomorrow by her doctor to make sure everything looks ok and normal in the healing process. The doctor may recommend another radiograph if they are concerned with ileus (that’s when the gut stops moving the ingested food). This condition can sometimes spontaneously occur or could be related to the initial cause of the GI upset. Another medication may also be prescribed. Best of luck and thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

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    Answered By Linda G, MS, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on October 30th, 2018

    Hello. Any anesthetic event can cause a temporary slowing of the bowels called ilius. It may take a day or two for things to really get moving again, especially if Harley had been fasted the evening before surgery. As long as she seems comfortable and she has an appetite, then just give her a little more time. She will probably have a bowel movement in the next day or so (probably tonight or tomorrow ). Any loss of appetite or sign she is in any discomfort, call your vet immediately. Otherwise, just relax. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

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