This post is an excellent reminder for all of us who work in the veterinary field to never forget the human component in pet amputation.
I've assisted in numerous feline amputations for many years and am glad to report the improvements of anesthesia and pain management of the feline patient has dramatically improved. While I'm not a true 'cat' person, I've always respected a 'cat' person bond to their felines. And thanks to the demands of all loving pet owners, veterinary medicine has developed surgeries that improve the patient's recovery time. It's no longer hack and slash, but Veterinarians now know how to perform amputations that give the patient the fastest recovery. I could go into detail but readers may find it a bit overwhelming or simply gross them out.
You know your cat very well, and yes, he should be kept inside after losing a leg. However, I've seen three legged cats still rule the outdoor roost. Nevertheless, remember losing a front leg takes one of his weapons away, so he will be at an increased risk of losing turf wars. You can do things to help your cat want to stay indoors by bringing the outdoors to him. He may enjoy looking out windows so you can make an easy access stairway to help him get to the window ledge. Keep him interested in cat toys.
Cats do fine when they wake up with one leg missing, but to be perfectly honest, and I tell all pet owners this: Our job was easy. Your cat was sleeping when we did our work, now you must do your work. You have to keep your cat from chewing at his incision. The much dreaded E. Collar can be devastating to a cat, but I've learned cats to tolerate kitty clothes much better than a large plastic cone around their neck. Baby onsies can be fitted to fit the fashion conscious cat for a temporary barrier.
You will be responsible for medicating the cat. You may have to apply a warm compress to the incision site. But I know this about cats: if they don't want to comply they won't. You may have to use your imagination to get medication into the cat. You can talk with your vet about putting medications in canned kitty food.
Post op care is what determines the success of the surgery. You'll have to make some adjustments to help your cat be safe, but you can do it. And remember, emotionally your cat will do fine. He will adjust and so will you. Express your concerns to your veterinary staff, and if they don't answer your questions in the manner you like, find another veterinarian.
Thank you for reminding veterinary community of the person behind the pet.
