What time do vets usually call after a procedure?

[VelmaKe11y]

Dropped my cat off this morning at 8, they told me she would probably have it done at about 10ish. I called at 12 for an update and they said she’d already had it done and she was already awake and I just need to wait for a call.

So that was 2 and a half hours ago. She didn’t have anaesthetic, she had an xray under sedation and was already awake and fine at 12 and it feels so cruel leaving her in the cage at the vets when I am free to go and pick her up! In your experience, is it normal for them to leave it so late to call with the findings??

She needs to be fully recovered from the sedation and the vets need time to fully read the X-rays and form a plan going forward.
If emergencies come in during that time then everything will be put on hold while they deal with that. All of this on top of a full procedures list for the day.
Try not to worry, your cat will be in good hands.

If it was 5pm and they hadn't called I might be a little concerned, but it's only half past 2!

I think the vets like to monitor for a fair few hours after a surgical procedure

As a veterinary nurse , this is totally normal. The time she needs to stay will be based on alot of variables, age, health status and what she was being xrayed for (RTA , respiratory issues etc). After her sedation she would still be dopey for a few hours so they want to make sure her temperature is ok and that she is able to stand etc on her own so that she is safe to go home. She is also one of many pets they are taking care of. Im sure she was snuggled up in a warm blanket being well cared for. I hope her xrays were ok and nothing too serious and she is now back home with you x