Since 1985, the dedicated and compassionate veterinary team at Seven Hills Veterinary Hospital, Inc have successfully performed spay and neuter procedures on many male and female cats of all breeds and ages. We have also helped educate cat owners throughout Colorado about spay and neuter procedures, including when to spay or neuter a cat, what to expect during and after surgery, and why cat spaying and cat neutering are essential to helping control the pet population problem in Colorado.
We strongly believe that responsible cat ownership is synonymous with spay and neuter procedures. Therefore, we have compiled some of the most frequently asked questions to help you learn more about this important service.
What Is Cat Neutering?
Cat neutering refers to the castration, or removal of the testicles, of a male cat so that he cannot impregnate a female cat. Only a veterinary surgeon can properly and safely perform cat neutering surgery.
Cat neutering surgery includes the following:
- General anesthesia is used to prevent discomfort
- The veterinary team monitors breathing, heart rate, oxygen levels, blood pressure, anesthetic depth, and overall health
- A small incision is made at the front of the scrotum
- Each testicle is removed and the blood supply and vas deferens are tied off
- The incision is closed using surgical glue or sutures
Your veterinarian will provide postoperative instructions.
Although cat neutering can cause mild discomfort immediately after surgery, pain management is provided. At-home care helps ensure a safe recovery, including:
- Providing a quiet, indoor recovery space away from other animals
- Limiting running and jumping
- Preventing licking of the incision site, using an E-collar if needed
- Checking the incision daily for proper healing
- Contacting your veterinarian if you notice redness, swelling, discharge, lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, decreased appetite, or any concerns
What Is Spaying a Cat?
Spaying a cat refers to an ovariohysterectomy, or removal of portions of the female reproductive system so she cannot become pregnant. Cat spaying is a routine surgical procedure performed safely by a veterinary surgeon and carries minimal risk of serious complications.
Spaying a cat includes the following:
- General anesthesia is used to prevent discomfort
- The veterinary team monitors breathing, heart rate, oxygen levels, blood pressure, anesthetic depth, and overall health
- A surgical laser is used to make a small abdominal incision and remove the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and uterus
- The incision is closed with sutures
Postoperative instructions will be provided. Pain management measures are taken, including pain relief. Recovery care following spay surgery is the same as that described above for neutering.
If you are concerned about spaying your cat, we encourage you to discuss your questions with your veterinarian at your next visit.
Why Should You Spay or Neuter Your Cat?
There are many important reasons to spay or neuter your cat. According to AmericanHumane.org, approximately 3.7 million animals are euthanized in shelters each year due to overpopulation. Spay and neuter procedures help ensure you are not contributing to this number.
Additionally, according to the Feral Cat Project, a single unspayed female cat and her offspring can produce up to 100 cats over a lifetime. This outcome is entirely preventable through spaying and neutering.
When Should You Neuter a Cat?
We recommend spaying and neutering cats at approximately 6 months of age. Male cats can reach sexual maturity earlier, which increases the risk of accidental pregnancy. Kittens also tend to recover faster and experience fewer complications than adult cats. If you are unsure when to neuter your cat, please consult your veterinarian.
What Is the Right Age for Cat Spaying?
We recommend spaying cats at approximately 6 months of age. Kittens generally tolerate surgery better and heal faster than adult cats. Delaying spaying increases the risk of unwanted pregnancy and surgical complications. Your veterinarian can help determine the ideal timing for your cat.
Make Your Appointment to Spay or Neuter Your Cat Today
Scheduling a spay or neuter appointment with our veterinary team is easy by phone or email. Our experienced staff is happy to answer questions, address concerns, and help schedule surgery for your feline companion.