What are spaying and neutering?
Spaying a female cat is a surgical procedure that removes parts of her reproductive organs: the ovaries and uterus.
Neutering a male cat is a surgical procedure that removes his reproductive organs, the testicles.
Spaying is a slightly more complex procedure than neutering, because it requires an incision in the abdomen.
Why spaying female cats is recommended
- Population control. Spaying prevents unwanted litters.
- Health. Spayed cats have a lower risk of certain diseases, such as malignant mammary tumours and infections of the ovaries or uterus. They are also less likely to fight with other cats.
- Behaviour. Spayed cats are usually calmer and less likely to mark their territory.
Why neutering male cats is recommended
- Population control. Like spaying in females, neutering male cats helps control the population.
- Health. Neutering lowers the risk of certain diseases, such as inflammation of the prostate or testicles. Neutered males are more likely to stay close to home and less likely to roam and run into danger.
- Behaviour. Neutered males are usually less aggressive and less likely to mark their territory. They are calmer, less stressed, and roam or hide less often.
When to spay or neuter
Female cats reach sexual maturity early, from around 5 months of age, and males a little later. That is why neutering or spaying is recommended from 6 months of age, once the first vaccinations have been done and before the animal is sexually mature.
Neutering or spaying is also a safe procedure for an older cat. Talk to your vet first, though, and decide together when it is best to do it.
If you want to spay your cat after she has had kittens, be aware that the operation may then be more complex. It is best to wait until the kittens have grown and are ready to leave their mother.
How the operation is done
The operation is done under general anaesthetic and usually takes about 30 minutes. Routine tests are done beforehand to make sure the procedure is safe.
Recovery after the operation
After the operation your pet needs time to recover, so prepare a safe, quiet place for it to rest.
- After spaying, the stitches are removed after 10 days and the cat no longer feels any discomfort.
- After neutering, the incisions do not need stitches, so male cats recover faster.
Talk to your vet before the procedure: email klinika@vilniusvet.lt, call +370 5 215 4202 or book a consultation.
