Anesthia in Older Cat

[Boscovs]

Last Friday my 13 yr old was put under anesthia for teeth cleaning.  Before she went, she was extremely active, played all the time.  Now, it's been a week, and she does not seem to be herself.  She was romping with my other cats, and now seems completely disinterested in everything except sleeping.  She liked playing with me and greeting me at the door, she's not doing that either.  They told me to give it time, but would it take this long.  She's eating well enough, but just not herself.  I'm a little worried about her.

Thank you.

[Boscovs]

Hi and thanks for your concern:

I called the vet's office yesterday.  And, spoke to a different vet (the initial  vet was not availabe to speak with me just then). He told me it was not normal for her to be lethargic for so long.  The anesthia should have worn off after a few days.  They used isoflurane.  He asked if she were on antibiotic; I told him no.  They did not give me any.  He then voiced concerns about her kidneys as older pets have lower functioning kidneys to begin with.  I asked if that would not show up in the bloodwork.  He said yes, but they allow a certain percentage of kidney function as passable to undergo anesthia.  He felt she may be dehydrated.  So, he told me to give her tuna water and although he did not recommend me using an eye dropper to hydrate her further do to stress; I did so anyway, because if she is dehydrated, she needs hydration quickly.  And, of course, if she did not improve, to bring her in.  I was somewhat perturbed with the first vet for not taking the time to explain things to me even after I had asked what I should look for post surgery because she had two teeth removed  They (the vet and receptionist and tech) just told me she would be fine.  Not to worry.  And, in fact the receptionist told me it took her older cat a week and a half to recover from the anesthia, so I thought what she was going through might be normal.  Anyway, hydrating her did the trick so far.  I am so relieved.  Your advice was good, and I learned a valuble lesson.  Next time, consultation prior and written instructions afterwards.  And for now, I will keep a strict watch on her.  Thank you again.  

[babs824]

i had a similar experience a few months ago with my 17 yr old himmy. the bottom line is that i personally wouldnt do it again unless the teeth were in such bad shape that there was no alternative. best of luck, babs

[opus88]

hi and welcome. this is not at all normal to still be so lethargic nearly a week aft the anesthesia....your Vet clinic needs to examine her and find out whats wrong, there should be NO additional charge for this. This is very unprofessional of them to blow if off so easily.
What was used for anesthetic? Gas sevaflurane or isoflurane are the safest....and what meds was she given? you need to ask all these questions.
I hope by today she is more herself, otherwise please take her in to the Vet again asap.
best of luck wishes♥