How do I know that my cat is in pain following surgery?

•    Pain is more difficult to assess in cats versus dogs as signs can be more subtle and they usually do not vocalize 
•    Signs of pain in a cat include the following:

• biting if you get near the surgical site
• growling or deep cry
• not wanting to eat
• hiding and not wanting to be near owner (remember that this could also be caused by the cat just being upset about leaving home and coming back)

What can be done for pain at home for my cat?

•    Pain medication such as buprenorphine or a Duragesic (fentanyl) patch 
•    Tylenol will kill a cat as they lack abundant glutathione enzyme in the liver 
•    Anti-inflammatories can be used, but the dose is much less than dogs and they should be given only for a few days.  Discuss the use of any Anti-inflammatory drugs with your doctor prior to use.