I had a cat while I was going thru my mandibulectomy recovery and it was ok. I had no one else to take care of this so I had to do it myself. Anyone who has a compromised immune system or is pregnant should avoid cleaning cat litter boxes of possible. She should get some disposable rubber gloves to wear when cleaning the litter boxes and wash hands immediately after she is finished. The gloves can be purchased at any pharmacy or home improvement store (paint section).

She may not be up to using the tablet. There is a good chance that she will not remember very recent things, like what you are teaching her. I had alot of memory issues stemming from my mandibulectomy or it could be from being kept in a medically induced coma for 3 weeks. I 'forgot' about a 4 month window which included a few weeks prior to the surgery and most of the hospital stay plus the first couple weeks I was home.

No matter how much you prepare for this, there will be things that are missed. Its just not possible to get ready for what you arent sure about. She could be very fortunate and sail right thru the whole thing. I do know several people who have had this done and they speak fine, look almost perfect, and have gone on to have good lives. Some patients will bounce back within a couple months. I hope this is the case with your mother!