My cat licked neuter incision after cone removal. Is it an emergency?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Shorthair | Male | neutered | 11 months and 21 days old | 10 lbs
My cat managed to take off his cone when I was not looking and licked himself this his 6th day from getting neutered. No vets are open today till tomorrow. Is he going to be okay till tomorrow when I can take him to the vet? I need help please answer
4 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on March 3rd, 2019
Oh Chandler, what a naughty kitty. They are so good at removing their cone! It looks like there is a little prolapsed tissue there likely from where he opened the incision. As long as he keeps his cone on overnight it will likely be okay to see you vet tomorrow. They can then make sure he doesn't need a suture and/or antibiotics. I hope this helps and thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!
3Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
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Published on February 26th, 2018
I would have to see the wound to be sure, but if you are certain that the wound is completely healed, then you can remove the cone. I would recommend watching him closely for two hours after removing the cone to ensure that he doesn't bother the stitches or staples too much. There is always a possibility that he can rip them out and cause further damage. I hope that helps and all is well with your cat.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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Published on January 8th, 2018
Without seeing the wound it is impossible to advise but i would be concerned if he removed the cone he may have chewed the stitches leaving it open to infection. Most wounds if less than half inch wide will heal if infection is avoided but i would recommend a post surgery recheck to be sure
2Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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Published on November 13th, 2019
The area looks irritated and inflamed, but otherwise the suture site looks OK. This can be normal for a few days after surgery as the tissue heals. I would 100% get an Elizabethan (cone) collar to prevent Louis from licking at the site and ripping out stitches. If the area doesn't heal, oozes debris, is hot to the touch, swells more or stays swollen for more than a few days, bringing him back to your vet is best.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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