If your cat is about to undergo an operation for spaying or neutering or one of many orthopedic procedures, talk to your cat’s veterinarian about pain management medication.

Different pain relievers work in different ways, but many veterinarians recognize the importance of controlling pain before surgery takes place. That way, when your cat wakes up from surgery, her pain and inflammation is lessened and she can enjoy a more comfortable recovery. One medication designed to work in this way is METACAM, which is the only medication of its kind approved in the US for use in cats.