Neutering and spaying not only help control the cat population but also offer a myriad of health benefits for your cat. By neutering your male cat or spaying your female cat, you can prevent unwanted pregnancies and reduce the risk of certain cancers and diseases. It can also help resolve behavioural issues such as aggression and roaming. It is important to take this responsibility seriously as an unneutered male cat can father hundreds of kittens in his lifetime, contributing to the already staggering number of stray and abandoned cats. So, whether you have a male or female cat, consider the long-term benefits of neutering or spaying. It's a decision that can positively impact your cat's overall health, well-being, and the community as a whole.
What do we mean when we say a cat is neutered?
Neutering refers to the surgical procedure in which a male or female cat's reproductive organs are removed to prevent them from reproducing. Neutered cats are also sometimes referred to as "spayed" in the case of female cats or "sterilised".
The benefits of neutering or spaying your cat
-
Importance of controlling the cat population
The cat population is already at an alarming level, with countless stray and abandoned cats struggling to survive. By neutering or spaying your cat, you play a crucial role in controlling the population. An unneutered male cat can mate with multiple females, leading to an exponential increase in the number of kittens. These kittens often end up on the streets, facing hunger, disease, and other dangers. By neutering or spaying your cat, you contribute to reducing the number of unwanted cats and help create a more sustainable and humane environment for all feline creatures.
-
Health benefits for your cat
Neutering or spaying your cat can significantly improve their overall health. For female cats, spaying eliminates the risk of uterine infections and reduces the chances of developing mammary tumours, which can be malignant. Spaying also eliminates the risk of potentially life-threatening conditions such as pyometra, a severe infection of the uterus. For male cats, neutering reduces the risk of testicular cancer and eliminates the possibility of testicular torsion. It also decreases the likelihood of prostate problems and certain urinary tract infections. By opting for these procedures, you give your cat a better chance at a longer and healthier life.
-
Behavioural benefits of neutering or spaying
Neutering or spaying your cat can have a positive impact on their behaviour. Unneutered male cats are prone to territorial marking, spraying urine to assert their dominance. This behaviour can lead to a strong, unpleasant odour in your home. Neutering helps reduce or eliminate this behaviour altogether. It also decreases aggression and the instinct to roam, making your cat more content and less likely to engage in fights or escape. Female cats in heat can display restlessness, yowling, and attracting unwanted attention from male cats. Spaying eliminates these behaviours, making your female cat more calm and relaxed.
What age should I neuter or spay my cat?
The ideal time to neuter or spay your cat may vary depending on several factors, including their age and overall health. Generally, it is recommended to have the procedure done when your cat reaches sexual maturity, which is typically around six months old. However, it's important to consult with your veterinarian to determine the best timing for your specific cat. In some cases, early spaying or neutering may be recommended, especially for shelter cats or those at risk of contributing to the cat overpopulation problem. Your vet will be able to provide guidance based on your cat's individual needs.
What is the procedure for spaying or neutering a cat?
The neutering or spaying procedure is a routine surgery performed under general anaesthesia. Your cat will need to fast for a few hours before the procedure to prevent any complications. During the surgery, the vet will remove the reproductive organs - the ovaries and uterus in females (spaying) and the testes in males (neutering). The incision is then closed with dissolvable stitches or surgical glue. After the procedure, your cat will need a quiet and comfortable space to recover. It's important to follow the vet's postoperative care instructions, which may include pain management, limiting physical activity, and monitoring the incision site for any signs of infection. Most cats recover within a couple of weeks, and the stitches will dissolve on their own.
Myths about neutering or spaying your cat
- Neutering or spaying will make my cat fat. While it's true that neutered or spayed cats may have a slightly lower metabolic rate, weight gain is more often the result of overfeeding and lack of exercise. By providing a balanced diet and engaging your cat in regular physical activity, you can prevent excessive weight gain.
- My cat should have at least one litter before being spayed. This is a common misconception, but it has no basis in fact. In fact, spaying your cat before her first heat cycle significantly reduces the risk of certain diseases and cancers. It also eliminates the challenges of finding suitable homes for the kittens and dealing with potential complications during birth.
- Neutering or spaying will change my cat's personality. While the procedure may result in reduced aggression and roaming, it does not alter your cat's fundamental personality traits. Your cat will still exhibit their unique behaviours and characteristics, but without the influence of reproductive hormones.
When is the right time to neuter or spay your cat?
The cost of neutering or spaying can vary depending on factors such as your location, the vet's fees, and any additional services required. However, the cost of these procedures is often significantly lower than the expenses associated with caring for a pregnant cat or raising a litter of kittens. If the cost is a concern, there are several options available for financial assistance. Many animal welfare organisations, local shelters, and vet clinics offer low-cost or even free neutering or spaying services.
Cat’s Protection offers £10, £5 or even free neutering and spaying in parts of the country depending on your circumstances.
In London, there is a joint scheme called The London Cat Care & Control Consortium (C4) by Cats Protection, Battersea Dogs and Cats Home, RSPCA and others that provides free neutering within the M25. Check if you’re eligible.
Conclusion
Neutering or spaying your cat is incredibly important for population control, health and cost reasons. The procedure is quick, easy and painless for your cat and some of the larger animal welfare charities provide financial support if you are struggling to pay for it.
Subscribe to our newsletter for 10% off your first order.