700 EAST IRVING PARK RD • ROSELLE, IL 60172 PHONE (630)307-9115 • FAX (630)307-9114 PARKROSEVET.COM Caring for your Cat after Declaw Surgery What to expect at home? When you pick up your cat from the hospital, your cat may either be groggy or may act completely normal. Each pet reacts to anesthesia differently. It is not abnormal for your cat to want to rest or be left alone for the remainder of the day. Normally, cats are hospitalized overnight so that we may remove the bandages the following day, so the cat should no longer be as groggy. However, your cats behavior may still be slightly altered for a day or two. Please monitor your pet at home for the following tonight: Constant vomiting or diarrhea Inappetance Extreme lethargy Pale gum color Labored breathing Unusual behavior If you observe any of these, please do not hesitate to call us back at 630-307-9115. If something occurs after our normal business hours, please contact an emergency hospital immediately. Medications We may have sent your cat home with pain medication and/or antibiotics. Your nurse or doctor will explain how to administer and how often to give these medications. Please follow directions as indicated. Do not hesitate to ask us questions regarding medication or any other inquiries you may have after your visit with us today. Other Important Things Check the toes daily for swelling or discharge. Keep the paws dry. You may notice glue on the toes which is a skin adhesive used to close the incisions. Use only shredded paper or a paper litter such as “Yesterday’s News” (available at your local pet supply store) for the next 14 days. Access to other regular litter or dirt can result in infection. The recovery time varies with each cat. Most cats will be healed in 2-6 weeks. If you cat is limping more than 5 days after surgery please call. Larger and/or older cats may take longer to heal. Please schedule a follow-up appointment in 10-14 days to make sure your pet has healed well after the procedure.