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Getting Your Cat Fixed: When & What to Know

Have you recently adopted a kitten or unfixed adult cat? You're likely wondering what best practices are when it's time to spay or neuter. In this article, our Voorhees vets discuss what you need to know about getting your cat fixed and when you should do it.

 

Should you get your cat fixed?

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. Plus, spaying or neutering your cat greatly lowers their risk of reproductive-related diseases and cancers. 

When should you get your cat fixed?

Most vets recommend spaying or neutering kittens at four months old, as they will not have reached sexual maturity at this stage. 

However, adult cats can also be spayed or neutered. If you're unsure about when to get your cat fixed, just ask your vet. He or she can help you decide when to get your cat spayed or neutered. 

How are spaying and neutering different?

Getting a cat fixed is an important undertaking. There are some key differences between the two main reproductive procedures.

Spaying

Fixing female cats is referred to as spaying, which means that the vet will surgically remove the cat's uterus and/or 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

Controlling the number of unwanted cats in your area 

Female kittens can get pregnant when they are just 6 months old. Additionally, femaile cats can have up to four litters per year, and each litter can be made up of as many as 10 kittens! That means your cat could have as many as 40 kittens annually! that is a lot of unwanted cats. 

Male cats can impregnate several female cats in a row, leading to potentially stray litters in your community. 

Reduce your cat's risk of disease

Having your kitten spayed before she has her first heat 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. By reducing the population of homeless cats, you are also helping to 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 unspayed, they attract the attention of neighborhood male cats. Unneutered male cats hanging around your house and garden can be problematic since these males have a tendency to spray, fight and howl. 

Benefits of Neutering Your Male Cat

Reduced numbers of unwanted kittens

One unneutered male cat can make many female cats pregnant. Having your male cat neutered can play a significant role in helping to reduce the number of homeless cats in your neighborhood. 

Reduced risk of many common health issues

Neutering can help to reduce cat aggression and may mean fewer injuries from cat fights, and a reduced risk of your cat contracting FIV (immunodeficiency virus) or FeLV (Feline leukemia virus). Neutering can also curb your male cat's tendency to roam, reducing his risk of being injured by a vehicle. 

Helps to reduce the incidence of spraying

Typically, unneutered male cats will spray urine inside the home more often than neutered males, and often try to get outside more. Having your male kitten neutered while he's young can help to prevent spraying and other territorial and mating behaviors from starting. 

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.

Is it time for your cat's spaying or neutering appointment? Contact our Voorhees vets today to book your spot.

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Voorhees Veterinary Center is accepting new patients! Our experienced vets are passionate about the health of New Jersey's companion animals. Get in touch today to book your pet's first appointment.

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