Stitched area from spaying a little swollen/hard to the touch?

Question

I got my female cat spayed 4 days ago and today I noticed that the area around the stitches seems a little swollen and hard to the touch, is this normal or should I be worried at this point? She doesn't seem to be in pain and is running around like usual but I have had male cats all my life so I am not sure what the stitched area on the stomach should look like while healing...

Answer 1

I had my kitten spay last week and on the take home instructions it read that there might be redness, swelling and a hard bump in the spot of the surgery. You should be able to call the vet on the phone and ask if this is ok. It should not cost you anything to get this answer from your vet! Take care and congrats on helping control the animal population. I can tell you are a responsible pet owner!

Answer 2

If she is running around as normal, she is probably fine- that could actually be stressing the wound a bit- hence the swelling. If you are worried, give a call to the vet- but as long as she is eating/drinking and there is no discoloration (other than a little reddened) she is just healing.

Answer 3

A call to the vet wouldn't be a bad idea.  It's hard for us to say without seeing it.  A little swelling is normal and infections are often red and a bit hot to the touch.  But it might be the begining of an infection so a phone call wouldn't hurt.

Answer 4

Bring her in if the area is warm to the touch, looks red or inflamed or your cat is lethargic, you suspect she is running a temp or stops eating or drinking.