Spaying and neutering your cats can have huge benefits and implications on overpopulation. Male cats that are intact are more likely to escape their homes to breed with a female cat in heat if she is nearby. Intact male cats are more likely to urinate outside of the litter box to mark their territory. As well, there are health benefits associated with the procedure, such as eliminating the risk of testicular, ovarian and uterine cancer. Female cats may also develop an infection in the uterus, which can be life-threatening and is completely preventable with a spay.
What is spaying or neutering?
Spaying and neutering are surgical procedures that we perform to prevent a cat from being able to reproduce. A neuter is performed on male cats and involves removing both testicles. A spay procedure is for female cats and involves removing the ovaries and uterus.
When should I neuter/spay my cat?
We recommended neutering or spaying your cat at 6 months of age.
What is the procedure to spay/neuter a cat?
Your cat will have a physical examination done prior to the procedure, to ensure they are healthy and there are no underlying medical conditions. We recommend a blood profile to assess the internal organs and complete blood count because the drugs we use are metabolized by the liver or kidneys and we want to ensure these are healthy. An intravenous catheter is placed in one of the limbs to allow us to give medications and to act quickly in case of an emergency. Intravenous fluids are given to cats undergoing a spay, males will have a local anesthetic placed to help with pain. Your cat is then hooked up to a gas inhalant system, to keep them asleep during the procedure. A technician closely monitors their vitals throughout and on recovery. Your pet will be sent home with additional pain medications.
