Neutering in cats is a routine surgical procedure. If you are not planning to breed your kitten, then there is no reason to deny cat neutering. Neutering in cats reduces undesirable behaviour and health problems and keeps the feral population under control. In this blog post we will provide all the information you should have before you neuter your cat.
What is Neutering?
Neutering in cats is a surgical procedure to remove reproductive organs so that the cat is unable to reproduce.
“Neutering your pet is one of the most important decisions you can make to improve their health and quality of life.”
Difference between Spaying and Neutering
In female cats, this procedure is called spaying or ovariohysterectomy, which involves removal of the uterus and ovaries. It eliminates the heat cycle, preventing behaviours like yowling, restlessness, and attracting male cats.
On the other hand, neutering in male cats is specifically called castration or orchiectomy, which involves the removal of both testicles. It reduces aggressive behaviours, territorial marking (spraying), and the desire to roam.
What are the benefits of neutering a cat?
Neutering in cats offers a wide range of benefits, which include health benefits, a reduction in aggressive behaviour, and cat population control.
“Spaying or neutering your pet isn’t just a choice—it’s a responsibility”
Health Benefits
Neutering in cats reduces ovarian, uterine, and mammary tumours in female cats. In fact, spaying before the first heat cycle in cats reduces the risk of mammary tumours by 91 percent. Moreover, it reduces the risk of testicular cancer and prostate issues in male cats. Neutered male cats are three times less likely to be diagnosed with prostate disease.
Neutering in female cats eliminates chances of reproductive infections like pyometra (infection of the uterus) and reduces the risk of sexually transmitted diseases.
Neutered cats tend to live longer because they are less exposed to mating-related problems.
Behavioural Benefits
Neutered cats tend to show less aggressive behaviour, leading to fewer injuries or bite wounds.
Cats are less likely to spray (to mark their territory) if neutered.
Neutering in cats reduces roaming behaviour in which cats wander in search of mates. In one study, neutering reduced roaming behaviour in male cats by 90%.
Without hormonal fluctuations, neutered cats become more calm and affectionate.
Population Control
According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), 3.4 million cats enter U.S. animal shelters every year. Moreover, 70% of the cats in shelters are not neutered, contributing to the overwhelming number of kittens born each year. (American Humane Association).
Neutering prevents unwanted and homeless kittens. This results in a lower shelter population and euthanasia rate to control overpopulation.
Economic Benefits
Neutering is cost-effective in the long run because it will save you on your veterinary bill on reproductive health-related issues. In addition, you will not have to raise and care for newborn kittens.
Signs your Cat needs to be Neutered
The ideal age to neuter a cat is 4 to 6 months, but this can vary depending on breed and health status. Kittens can be neutered as early as 8 weeks old, especially in shelters. In addition, adult cats can be neutered at any age.
Besides that, there are few signs your cat should be neutered.
- Spraying Strong-Smelling Urine
- Increased Aggression
- Roaming and Escaping
- Restlessness and Hyperactivity
- Frequent Mounting
- Loud, Persistent Yowling
- Tail Positioning and Posturing
- Swollen Testicles in Males
- Visible Heat Cycle Symptoms in Females
- Frequent Fights and Injuries
- Signs of Reproductive Issues
- Unwanted Litters
What is the process of neutering a cat?
Here are simple steps of the cat neutering procedure.
Food is typically held for 8 to 12 hours to prevent vomiting under anaesthesia, but water is allowed until a few hours before surgery.
First of all, the veterinarian will examine the cats physically to ensure the cat is healthy enough for surgery. For older cats, blood tests are recommended.
Now sedatives and anaesthesia are given to cats so that they become unconscious and pain-free.
An incision is given by a veterinarian to remove reproductive organs, and after removing the organs, the incision is closed via sutures.
Neutering in male cats is a simple and quick procedure that takes 5 to 10 minutes, but spaying in cats is a little complex and time-consuming; it takes about 20 to 40 minutes.
After surgery, the cat is monitored closely, and painkillers are administered.
How do you take care of a cat after being neutered?
Proper aftercare of a neutered cat is important for a quick and comfortable recovery. Here is what you should do.
First of all, provide a calm, comfortable, and noise-free environment. Moreover, restrict jumping, running, or rough play for 7 to 10 days to avoid stress on the incision.
Closely monitor the incision site closely for warning signs like pus, excessive swelling, bleeding, or foul odour at least once or twice daily.
Use an E-Collar (Cone of Shame) to prevent licking and biting of the incision site.
Give any prescribed pain medications exactly as directed and never use human painkillers because they’re toxic to cats.
Offer small meals and ensure availability of clean water.
What are the risks of neutering a cat?
Neutering in cats is a surgical procedure with high success rates, but sometimes it can cause risks and complications.
- Reactions to Anaesthesia
- Bleeding
- Infection at surgical site
- Incision complications like wound opening
- Pain and Discomfort
- Swelling or Bruising
- Weight Gain in the long run
Cost of Neutering a Cat
The cost of neutering a cat varies widely depending upon location, clinic type, and cat health status.
For male cat neutering, the average cost ranges from $50 to $150 at low-cost clinics or shelters, while this price increases to $150 to $300 at private veterinary clinics.
Spaying is an expensive procedure because it’s complex and involves internal organ removal. Therefore, the average cost of female cat neutering ranges between $70 to $200 at low-cost clinics and $200 to $500 at private veterinary clinics.
“The benefits of spaying and neutering far outweigh the costs. It’s a small price to pay for a lifetime of health and happiness.” — ASPCA
Reasons not to neuter your cat
While neutering in cats offers many health and behavioural benefits, in certain conditions this may not be the best choice.
If a cat is suffering from underlying conditions like heart disease or liver disease, it may face a higher risk under anaesthesia. Moreover, if your cat has a history of adverse reactions to anaesthesia, surgery should be reconsidered. In addition, owners of pedigree cats involved in ethical breeding programs may choose not to neuter.
Some people believe that neutering interferes with the cat’s natural biological state, and in certain cultures or religions, altering an animal’s body is discouraged.
Conclusion
So, in this guide, we discussed what neutering is, its several benefits, and the procedure. Moreover, we explained the risk associated with neutering cats, procedure cost, and how you should take care after neutering in cats. I hope if you’re thinking of neutering your cat, you have enough information to go ahead with the procedure.
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