What is a Spay ?
A spay (ovariohysterectomy) involves the surgical removal of both ovaries and the uterus. This is a major operation necessitating entry into the abdomen. It is done under general anesthesia.
Why Spay a Cat ?
There are several advantages to spaying a cat.
A major advantage for most owners is the elimination of heat cycles and unwanted pregnancies. Female cats normally cycle from February to November each year. They come into heat approximately every 21 days and in the absence of male cats the heat will last 7 to 10 days. During their heat, most cats are very vocal and exhibit other obscure behaviors which are often distressing to the family. Some cats may even urinate around the house to mark their territory during their heat cycle.
Spaying eliminates the possibility of infection of the uterus. Such infections are not uncommon in mature cats and can be life threatening.
Heat-related behaviors such as urination outside the litter box, slight changes in temperament and appetite are eliminated by spaying.
It has been shown that cats spayed, especially prior to the first heat, have a lower incidence of breast cancer.
When to Spay ?
The best time to spay a cat is at approximately 5 to 6 months of age.
This is prior to its first heat. The operation at this age is easier and the
owner does not have to contend with heat cycles. Older cats, however, may be spayed
anytime between heats. If there is any thought of having the cat declawed, it can
most easily be done at the same time as the spay. Please see our information on
declawing.
Why Not Spay ?
There is essentially no disadvantage to spaying, other than the obvious. This is that the female cannot be used for breeding.
What Is Neutering?
Neutering may also be referred to as castration or orchidectomy. Neutering is a minor surgical procedure involving removal of each testicle through individual incisions in the scrotum. This is done under general anesthesia. Home care following neutering is minimal.
Why Neuter A Cat?
The major reason for neutering is to eliminate the unacceptable and unsociable male behavioural habits. Such behaviours are as follows:
Wandering: Male cats will wander endlessly in their efforts to find females. During their wandering they will often become involved in fights with other male cats and then suffer from resulting infections from bite wounds. Wandering cats are also often struck by cars.
Territorial Marking: Male cats “spray” on objects to mark their territory. This is obviously an objectionable behaviour when it occurs in the house. The odour of urine from non-neutered cats is exceptionally potent and penetrating.
When To Neuter?
The best time to neuter a male cat is at six to seven months of age. This is prior to the onset of objectionable behaviour. If this time has passed, male cats can be neutered at any age. However, if unwanted male behaviour has initiated, there is a less predictable success in eliminating the behaviour. If there is any consideration of declawing, this can easily and most economically be done at the same time as neutering. Please see our brochure on declawing.
Why Not Neuter A Cat?
Unless there is intention to breed, there is no significant disadvantage to neutering male cats. Although it eliminates male related behaviour, it does not change their personalities. Neutered male cats may be slightly heavier than otherwise, but the difference is not significant.
