My cat's acting strange days after anesthesia. Is this normal?

Question

Can anesthesia through muscle cause problems or death days after? I’ve read cats have suddenly died from anesthesia days after & am scared. My cat had a dental cleaning & had anesthesia 4 days ago. He was lethargic/had diarrhea/wasn’t eating for 2 days after. Vet gave him prednisone, mirtazapine, metronidazole to help. He is eating again now, but his personality is different. He isn’t as playful & he stares into space (something he never did before). Is this indication of an issue? Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Mediumhair | Male | neutered

Stacey Anstaett, DVM · Accepted Answer

I am so sorry for the delay in answering your question. I hope that HIro is feeling better now. It can take a few days for them to be back to normal following anesthesia. Since he is eating now, I suspect he may be coming around back to normal in the next few days. If you are still concerned about him, take him back to your vet to discuss your concerns. Regarding your specific question "Can anesthesia though muscle cause problems or death days after?" Whether anesthesia is given in the muscle, in the vein, or via inhalant (gas), it can cause cardiovascular changes that may manifest in illness days after; for instance if they had some pre-existing kidney insufficiency, its possible that deceased blood pressure while under anesthesia may further damage the kidneys to cause kidney failure. While I suppose it is possible that there could be decreased blood flow to the brain that could cause a change in their personality, this certainly isn't something we recognize occurring, I think in terms of frequency of that happening I would say its very rare. If Hiro is still not acting normally, please take him back to your vet for a recheck. I hope he is back to himself. Thank you for asking Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!

My cat's acting strange days after anesthesia. Is this normal?

Most Helpful Answer

Related Questions

Why is my mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and has pus?

What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?

What's the best way to feed my hamster when I'm going on a trip?

Can chickens eat bell peppers daily and what about veggie salads?

My newly adopted pet won't eat hay. What can I do to encourage it?

My pet is breathing hard, not eating, and lethargic. What's wrong?

Share