Female cats are spayed by removing their reproductive organs, and male cats are neutered by removing their testicles. In both cases the operation is performed while your cat is under anesthesia. Depending on your cat's age, size, and health, your cat will stay at your veterinarian's office for a few hours or a few days. Depending upon the procedure, your cat may need stitches removed after a few days. Your veterinarian can fully explain spay and neuter procedures to you and discuss with you the best age at which to sterilize your cat.

Why Should I Have my Cat Neutered?

1.    Spaying or Neutering is Good for Your Cat

• Spaying and neutering helps cats live longer, healthier lives.

• Spaying and neutering can eliminate or reduce the incidence of a number of health problems that can be very difficult or expensive to treat.

• Spaying eliminates the possibility of uterine or ovarian cancer and greatly reduces the incidence of breast cancer, particularly when your cat is spayed before her first estrous cycle.

• Neutering eliminates testicular cancer and decreases the incidence of prostate disease.

2.    Spaying or Neutering Is Good for You

• Spaying and neutering makes cats better, more affectionate companions.

• Neutering cats makes them less likely to spray and mark territory.

• Spaying a cat eliminates her heat cycle. Estrus lasts an average of six to 12 days, often twice a year.  Females in heat can cry incessantly, show nervous behavior, and attract unwanted male animals.

• Unsterilized cats often exhibit more behavior and temperament problems than do those who have been spayed or neutered.

• Spaying and neutering can make cats less likely to bite.

• Neutering makes cats less likely to roam the neighborhood, run away, or get into fights.

3.    Spaying and Neutering is Good for the Community

• Communities spend millions of dollars to control unwanted animals.

• Animal shelters are overburdened with surplus animals.

• Stray cats and homeless animals get into trash containers, defecate in public areas or on private lawns, and frighten or anger people who have no understanding of their misery or needs.

• Some stray cats also scare away or kill birds and wildlife.

• Spay or neuter surgery carries a one-time cost that is relatively small when one considers its benefits. It's a small price to pay for the health of your cat and the prevention of more unwanted cats.

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