METACAM AS A PAINKILLER FOR CATS

Cats, just like people, experience short-term pain after surgery or an injury.

To keep this pain under control your vet has prescribed Metacam oral suspension. Metacam oral suspension is an easy-to-give liquid which helps control pain during recovery from surgery or an injury. It is important that you give Metacam according to your vet’s advice.

If your cat has had a general anaesthetic then the after-effects (e.g. unsteadiness and drowsiness) normally wear off in 24 hours. If you have any concerns about your cat while he or she is recovering from surgery or injury you should contact your vet for advice.

SIGNS OF PAIN

How do cats show that they are in pain?

It is known that pain can persist for several days following injury or surgery. However, unlike people, cats cannot tell you when they are in pain.

So how can you tell?

The main things to watch for are any changes in your cat’s normal, daily behaviour. Signs of pain or discomfort to look out for:

Reluctance to move

Reluctance to move

Hunched or stiff

Hunched or stiff

Off their food

Off their food

Not themselves

Not themselves

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1.
Reluctance to move
  • Cats that are slower, withdrawn or more reluctant to move around may be in pain.
2.
Hunched or stiff
  • Some cats in pain sit hunched up with their back arched, or they may lie down with an abnormally stiff posture.
3.
Off their food
  • A cat that refuses food, when their appetite is normally good, may be in pain.
4.
Not themselves
  • If your normally friendly and easy-going cat becomes tetchy, tries to claw or bite or simply doesn’t like being handled, this could be a sign of pain. Likewise if they become more withdrawn and don’t want to interact with you as usual this can be another sign of pain.
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HOW TO HELP

Things you can do to keep your cat comfortable:

Rest and recovery

After surgery or a painful traumatic event, your cat is best kept inside initially to keep them warm and in quiet surroundings. Ensure that their bedding is comfy and there is a litter tray available for those necessities of life.

Careful feeding

Unless otherwise instructed by your vet, you can offer your cat a light meal on the first evening home, with a plentiful supply of drinking water.

Keep food and water within reach

Put food and water somewhere within easy reach, so your cat doesn’t have to travel too far or jump up to get what they need. Remember, food should be in a place where your cat feels ‘safe’ and away from the cat flap or litter tray.

Gentle stroking or grooming

If your cat is in the mood for contact, they may find it soothing if you gently stroke or groom them to help them stay calm and reassured. Remember to avoid any affected areas that may be sore or painful.

Don’t forget

Remember that your cat may take a little while to get back to their normal self. Your veterinary practice is best placed to advise how to help your cat, and also what to expect during their recovery.

Other advice

Remember that if you are concerned about your cat you should seek the advice of your veterinary practice.