Spaying or neutering is an important tool in helping to control the pet population, limiting the number of unwanted kittens in our shelters. It also ensures that your cat is safe from common diseases of the reproductive organs that often develop in the later years of an unfixed cat’s life. It can also improve annoying ‘marking’ behaviour, thus saving your home and furniture. Often a noticeable, generally positive, change in behaviour is also noticed once a cat has been spayed or neutered, thus improving the quality of life for you and your pet.
What is spaying or neutering?
Spaying (for females) or neutering (for males) surgically removes the reproductive organs and renders the cat sterile, unable to produce offspring. It stops the production of the reproductive hormones that result in mating behaviour, aggression, and the heat cycle. It improves the overall health and quality of life as the cat grows and matures.
When should I neuter/spay my cat?
Although there are some organizations that will perform spay or neuter surgery on kittens as young as eight weeks old, it is good practice to wait to spay or neuter until the cat grows up a bit more and the risk of anesthetic complication is reduced. It is also best to spay or neuter before the cat reaches puberty, usually at between 6 to 8 months. The ideal time for spaying or neutering is at 5 to 6 months of age.