Cat neutering and spaying is one of the most important decisions cat owners should make. All over the world, there are millions and millions of homeless cats. While it’s fortunate that some of these cats are being adopted, the remaining majority are often euthanized or left to die on the streets. Imagine, these could have been your sweet, cuddly pet cat! This is just one reason why cat neutering and spaying is one of the greatest gifts you can provide them.

Cat neutering and cat spaying is the surgical removal of a male cat’s testicles and a female cat’s ovaries and uterus. Please note that only a license physician/veterinarian can conduct this operation. Cat neutering and spaying is usually a safe procedure, with little or no complications.

What are the benefits of cat neutering or cat spaying?

Cat neutering and cat spaying iradicates unwanted cat births and minizmes the influence of sex hormones on your cat’s behavior. Problems in your cat’s behavior can also be minimized and prevented by cat neutering and spaying as sexual behavior in cats is reduced after the surgery.

For male cats, cat neutering eliminates urine spraying and roaming, usually resulting in fights with other neighborhood cats. Female cats, on the other hand, no longer show heat behavior, like making loud noises to attract male cats. Overall, being neutered and spayed increases the risk of relinquishment to a shelter. However, there are large individual differences and not all cats undergo a behavior change after cat neutering or spaying.

Though there are behavioral changes, cat neutering and cat spaying is unlikely to change your cat’s personality. Some male cats may appear lazy or docile, since they are less likely to roam and sometimes, may gain weight. Other cat personality traits, like playfulness, energy, activity levels, excitement and vocalization do not typically change following neutering and spaying.

When is the right time to neuter or spay you cats?

Early age cat neutering and spaying is becoming popular. Male cats neutered prior to puberty (6 months) do not develop large head and thick skin. But take note that neutered and spayed cats have a good tendency to gain weight due to reduced desire to roam. Cat neutering and spaying can also help in preventing various cat diseases. This can be prevented through dietary management. It is important to consult with your veterinarian or veterinary behaviorist for further details regarding cat neutering or spaying.