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My cat hasn't used the litter box after spay surgery. Should I worry?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | American Shorthair | Female | spayed | 11 months and 13 days old | 8 lbs

My cat was spayed yesterday—I picked her up at 3:30, so about 29 hours ago. She is eating relatively normally and has had some water, but she hasn’t used the litter box at all and I’m worried something is wrong.

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on July 11th, 2019

Thank you for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach with your question. Binx would have been fasted before surgery, so that may be why she hasn't used the litter box yet. It's very good she has eaten and is drinking, and I do expect she should use the litter box soon. If she hasn't in the next 24 hours, then I would be worried and have her seen by a vet. I hope this helps!

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on March 28th, 2018

    Thanks for visiting Petcoch. This presentation post neuter is actually pretty normal. In fact following any general anesthesia procesure we can expect a pet to not need to go potty for up to 24 hrs, and this is because the inhalant anesthetic medicine causes a short term ileus (slow moving gut). As long as Dino is not attempting to go and can't (straining), then I would not be concerned. He likely will go within the next 24 hrs. I hope this helps and best wishes with your kitty Dino! Take care.

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    Answered By Ricardo Fernandez, DVM

    Veterinarian, Veterinary Oncology Resident

    Published on January 25th, 2018

    Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! While not normal, this is somewhat common and sometimes is because of the anesthesia or pain medications administered. For this reason, I would give it another 12 hours before worrying too much. If still not going to the bathroom then, consider having her examined by a veterinarian then. Good luck and have a great day!

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