Your pet just had anesthesia – perhaps for surgery, dental cleaning, or wound care. You’re excited to have them home, but what behaviors are normal and expected and when should you have cause for alarm? 

The aftereffects of anesthesia are usually mild and last a day or two. Recovery times will vary. Older pets or those who’ve had more extensive procedures will typically take longer to get back to themselves. Younger, healthy pets usually feel “off” the night after anesthesia, slower the next day, and are generally back to themselves the day after that. 

Most common symptoms after anesthesia

After any procedure involving anesthesia, follow your veterinarian’s post-op instructions to prevent complications. The following are the most common signs and symptoms: 

1. Tired 

Your pet may feel groggy and sluggish. Allow your pet to recover in a quiet, safe space indoors away from other pets and children.  

2. Balance issues 

Many cats and dogs will experience trouble walking after being put under and “walk like they’re drunk.” Help them find their favorite spot to lie down and watch them around all stairs and slippery floors to prevent falls or injuries. 

Remember to take them outside for frequent bathroom breaks as they may be too disoriented to alert you.  

3. Intestinal upset 

The drugs used with anesthesia can really impact the stomach of some pets. They have also fasted, so some pets are very hungry or thirsty after anesthesia and can overeat/drink. Inappetence, nausea, and diarrhea can all be effects of anesthesia. 

Offer your pet half of their normal portion of dinner and small amounts of water frequently to flush the medication out of their system. Your pet’s appetite should gradually return within 24 hours of surgery. Do not change your pet’s diet or give table scraps, people food, milk, etc. during their recovery period. These foods can mask post-surgical complications. 

If your pet is vomiting, there is blood in their vomit, or they are still refusing to eat and drink 48 hours later, consult your veterinarian. 

4. Changes in temperature

Your pet’s ability to control their body temperature can be greatly affected by anesthesia. You may see them panting or shivering. It’s important to keep them slightly warm (not hot). 

You may consider using a blanket, and be very careful with heating pads — some animals will be so out of it they won’t move away even if it gets too hot.  

5. Vocalizing

Pets wake up from surgery and don’t understand what happened to them or why they feel “off,” causing anxiety. They are disoriented and restless and will express that through whining. 

While it’s extremely stressful for any pet parent to hear and sometimes that first night is rough, rest assured that it should go away after they get a good night’s sleep.   

6. Pain

Your pet may receive antibiotics or pain medication to help manage their discomfort after their procedure. Follow the medication schedule prescribed by your veterinarian. Do not stop any prescribed medication without first speaking to your veterinarian. 

Give your pet time to recover

All of the symptoms noted above should improve gradually as your pet recovers. If they don’t improve or things look worse on progressive days, contact your veterinarian.  

While it pains us to see our sweet pet experiencing the effects of anesthesia, know that it won’t last forever. Now may be a good time to provide a little extra TLC to aid in their healing process and offer a sense of comfort. Before you know it, your pet will be back to their old self and their (adorable) antics!