My cat is lethargic, not eating/drinking 48 hrs after spay. Serious?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Cat | American Shorthair | Female | spayed | 5 years old | 12 lbs
My cat went into surgery for a spay almost 48 hrs ago and refuses eat or drink anything. She's very lethargic and has only used the litter box once to pee. I have her on 0.18 ml of buprenorphine and 50mg of gabapentin. I fed her roughly one syringe of hill's prescription diet a/b to force feed her. If she doesn't eat/drink in the next couple hours I'm taking her to the vet regardless.
2 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on May 14th, 2020
Thank you for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach with your question about Boo. Poor girl! While you can see a decrease in appetite and potentially drinking after a spay, her appetite should have been back to normal or close to normal by now. It's very serious she hasn't eaten or drank in 48 hours, and that suggests something is quite wrong. I would take her into a vet immediately, as she may have a post-surgical complication. I hope this helps!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
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Published on August 8th, 2018
Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Poor Joio! If she is wearing an E-collar I would take it off and watch her closely. Sometimes that scares them or they can't figure out how to eat with it on. Try different food option: different canned foods, treats, meat flavored baby food. Sit with her to encourage her to eat. It could still be that the medications and/or anesthesia is affecting her. If she isn't eating by 48 hours post spay I would call your Vet. She may need to be examined, need medications or have anything you are giving stopped. I wish you the best!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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