When it comes to our pets, the topic of whether they should be spayed or neutered can be controversial. Dog parents have strong beliefs about this procedure, but is it the same for cats? With our pooches there is more and more scientific evidence coming out on the long-term negative effects that spaying and neutering are having on them. The good news is that research so far says our kitties don’t have the same negative long-term issues with spaying and neutering that apply to dogs.
We recommend your cats be spayed or neutered unless you are a responsible, licensed feline breeder. There are many health benefits to getting our kitties fixed as well as other benefits of not having unwanted births.
Spaying females before their first heat actually lessens their chances of getting certain cancers. It also helps prevent uterine infections. When female kittens go into heat they will walk about howling and howling looking for a mate. It just sounds like they are in pain and very frustrated, and they are not easy to console in this state.
Neutering male cats once their genitals have developed completely eliminates the chance of them getting testicular cancer and lowers the risk of prostate problems. Fixing our boy cats can lessen the urge to spray in your home.
Should you spay or neuter your cat?
Fixed cats are usually better behaved. When females are in heat they become so agitated to find a mate they will pace and howl for hours. Male cats will do just about anything they can to find a mate. This includes dashing out the door; putting them in a high risk of injury, fighting or getting hit by a car.
It’s important to be aware that a cat can get pregnant as early as 4 months old and have as many as 5 litters a year! As a guideline, it’s best to wait until your kitten is at least 6 months of age before the spay/neuter. Getting them fixed will make them healthier and will make you happier!
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