Anesthesia can cause several side effects in cats, but most are temporary and resolve quickly.
Common Side Effects:
- Lethargy: Your cat may be sleepy and sluggish for several hours after anesthesia.
- Vomiting: Some cats may vomit after anesthesia due to the effects of the drugs on their digestive system.
- Pain: Cats may experience some discomfort or pain at the injection site or from the surgical procedure itself.
- Shivering: Cats may shiver after anesthesia due to low body temperature.
- Decreased Appetite: Your cat may not eat for a few hours after anesthesia.
- Increased Thirst: Cats may drink more water than usual after anesthesia.
Less Common Side Effects:
- Respiratory Problems: In rare cases, anesthesia can cause breathing difficulties.
- Cardiac Arrhythmias: Anesthesia can sometimes disrupt the normal rhythm of the heart.
- Allergic Reactions: Cats can have allergic reactions to certain anesthetic drugs.
Long-Term Side Effects:
- Cognitive Decline: In some cases, anesthesia can contribute to cognitive decline in older cats.
- Liver or Kidney Damage: Long-term use of anesthesia can potentially damage the liver or kidneys, but this is rare.
Minimizing Side Effects:
- Pre-Anesthesia Bloodwork: Your veterinarian will likely recommend bloodwork to assess your cat's overall health before anesthesia.
- Fasting: Your veterinarian will instruct you on how long to fast your cat before anesthesia.
- Pain Management: Your veterinarian will prescribe pain medication to help manage discomfort after surgery.
- Post-Operative Care: Follow your veterinarian's instructions carefully regarding post-operative care.
It is important to remember that every cat is different, and the severity of side effects can vary. If you have any concerns about your cat's recovery, it is important to contact your veterinarian immediately.
