After spaying, a cat has watery eyes, what should I do? - briefly
If your cat's eyes are watery after being spayed, it is usually due to the anesthesia wearing off and should subside within a few days. If the watery eyes persist or worsen, consult your veterinarian promptly.
After spaying, a cat has watery eyes, what should I do? - in detail
After spaying, it is not uncommon for cats to experience watery eyes as a temporary side effect of the anesthesia and surgical procedure. This condition usually resolves within a few days to a week post-surgery. Here are some steps you can take to manage this symptom:
-
Monitor Your Cat's Eyes: Keep an eye on your cat's eyes to ensure that the discharge is clear and watery, rather than yellow or green, which could indicate an infection. If the discharge changes color or becomes thicker, consult your veterinarian immediately.
-
Clean the Eye Area: Gently clean the area around your cat's eyes with a damp cloth or cotton pad soaked in warm water. Be sure to use a separate cloth for each eye to prevent cross-contamination. Avoid using any solutions unless directed by your veterinarian, as some may cause irritation.
-
Avoid Rubbing: Cats often try to rub their eyes with their paws when they are uncomfortable. To prevent this, you can place a soft cone around your cat's neck. This will restrict your cat's access to the eye area and help prevent further irritation.
-
Maintain a Clean Environment: Ensure that your cat's living environment is clean and free from dust and allergens, which can exacerbate eye problems. Regularly change bedding and keep litter boxes clean.
-
Administer Medications as Directed: If your veterinarian has prescribed any medications or ointments for your cat's eyes, administer them exactly as directed. Do not stop the medication early even if your cat seems better, as completing the full course is essential for a full recovery.
-
Follow-up Care: Schedule follow-up appointments with your veterinarian to ensure that your cat's eyes are healing properly and that there are no underlying issues causing the watery discharge.
By following these steps, you can help your cat recover from the side effects of spaying and ensure their overall wellbeing. If at any point you notice significant changes or your cat seems to be in pain, do not hesitate to contact your veterinarian for further advice.