Should you get your cat fixed?
Deciding whether to get your cat fixed—spayed (for females) or neutered (for males)—is an important decision for pet owners.
Millions of cats end up at animal shelters across the United States each year. Getting your new kitten fixed will help reduce the number of homeless cats in your area. Additionally, spaying or neutering your cat greatly lowers their risk of reproductive-related cancers and diseases. Having this procedure done will also offer numerous other benefits for your pet and the broader community.
When should you get your cat fixed?
For the optimal health of your kittens, consider spaying or neutering them by the time they reach four months of age or before they reach sexual maturity. This safeguards them from potential health issues. Even adult cats can undergo this procedure. If you're uncertain about the timing, your veterinarian can guide you in deciding when to spay or neuter your cat.
How are spaying and neutering different?
Getting a cat fixed is an important undertaking. There are key differences when it comes to spaying and neutering your kitty. Here is what you can expect from each procedure:
Spaying
During a spaying procedure, the vet will make a relatively small incision and surgically remove your female cat's uterus and ovaries (an ovariohysterectomy). Sometimes, only the ovaries are removed and the uterus is left in the belly (an ovariectomy). Your spayed cat will not be able to have kittens after this surgery.
Neutering
Male cats are neutered or castrated when they are fixed, meaning the vet surgically removes the cat's testes so that your neutered cat will not be able to father kittens.
Benefits of Spaying Your Female Cat
We'll explore why you should consider getting your cat spayed, the procedure, and its advantages.
Controlling the number of unwanted cats in your area
Did you know that your young cat might become a mother to her own kittens before turning six months old? Furthermore, female cats can give birth up to four times a year, with each batch having around ten kittens. This means your cat could have up to 40 kittens annually! That's a significant number of cats that might not find homes.
Reduce your cat's risk of disease
When you have your kitten spayed before she has her first heart cycle can reduce your cat's risk of developing breast cancer later in life and eliminate the possibility of your cat developing pyometra (a potentially fatal infection of the womb).
Protect wildlife in your neighborhood
In the USA, it is estimated that cats kill billions of birds annually. Reducing the population of homeless cats will help protect birds and other small animals.
Deter unwanted behaviors
Spaying your female cat can help to keep male cats out of your backyard. When female cats are not spayed, they attract the attention of neighborhood male cats. Male cats that are not neutered can hang around your house, and the garden can be problematic since these males tend to spray, fight, and howl.
Benefits of Neutering Your Male Cat
We'll explore why you should consider getting your cat neutered, the procedure, and its advantages.
Reduced numbers of unwanted kittens
An unneutered male cat can simultaneously father litter from multiple female cats. Getting your male cat neutered is important in curbing the population of stray cats in your area.
Reduced risk of many common health issues
Getting your cat neutered can lower aggression, lessen fight injuries, and decrease the chance of contracting FIV or FeLV. Neutering also curbs male cats from wandering, reducing the risk of accidents with vehicles.
Helps to reduce the incidence of spraying
Usually, male cats that haven't been neutered tend to spray urine inside the house more and show a stronger urge to go outside compared to neutered males. Neutering your young male kitten can prevent spraying and other behaviors related to territory and mating.
What to Expect After Your Spayed or Neutered Cat's Surgery
Following the procedure, your cat may experience mild discomfort, which can be managed with prescribed pain relief from your vet. Most cats recover within a few days, but it's important to follow your veterinarian's post-operative care instructions.
Keep your cat calm and restrict its activity to ensure proper healing. Check the surgical site for any signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or discharge. If necessary, use an Elizabethan collar (e-collar) to prevent your cat from licking the incision site.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.