What is the difference between cat spaying and neutering?
The difference between cat spaying and neutering is that spaying is a term used for female cats, where we remove the ovaries and the uterus, and neutering is a term used for male cats, where we remove the testicles.
At what age should I have my cat spayed or neutered?
We usually spay and neuter cats around 7 to 8 months of age.
There can be different situations. If you have a household with a female and male cat that are related, we often encourage spaying and neutering earlier, like at five months of age, so that they do not mate with each other.
What are the benefits of spaying my female cat?
The benefits of spaying a female cat include reducing population and preventing pregnancy. Additionally, spayed cats are less likely to get breast cancer and cannot get ovarian or uterine cancer. They also avoid pyometra, an infection of the uterus that requires emergency surgery.
What are the benefits of neutering my male cat?
Benefits of neutering a male cat include helping with population control. Neutering usually helps with behavioral issues in male cats, such as spraying or marking, and prevents testicular cancer.
Are there any risks associated with spaying or neutering my cat?
The risks with spaying and neutering are quite low. They do have to undergo anesthesia, which has very low risks. There is potential for bleeding during the procedure, but that is very uncommon as we are very experienced with these surgeries.
What is the typical recovery time after spaying or neutering a cat?
After spaying, recovery time is about 12 to 14 days. After a cat neuter, it's about seven days. During that recovery time, the animal will need to be kept quiet and wear a cone or some kind of surgical suit to stay away from their incision.
How should I prepare my cat for spaying or neutering?
To prepare your cat for spaying or neutering, they should be fasted, with no food after 10:00 p.m. the night before. They can have access to water, which should be picked up first thing in the morning.
If you have an indoor-outdoor cat, ensure they are inside and you know where they are, so you can drop them off on the morning of surgery.
What should I expect during my cat's postsurgery recovery?
During postsurgery, you should expect them to be a little quieter for about 24 hours. They usually recover quite well. Keeping them quiet can be challenging post-surgery, but normal food and water intake should continue.
Can my cat eat or drink before surgery?
Your cat should not have food after 10 p.m. the night before their surgery and is allowed to have water until the morning of.
How do I care for my cat's surgical site after spaying or neutering?
Usually, you don't need to do any aftercare to your cat's surgical site. It should be clean and closed, and keeping them away from it is most important.
Are there any special dietary needs for my cat recovering from surgery?
There are no special dietary needs post-surgery. The first night after surgery, we usually recommend feeding them a little less because they're still recovering from anesthesia, but no true changes in diet are needed.
What are the common side effects of spaying or neutering in cats?
Common side effects can include inflammation at the site of the surgery. If they are able to get to it, they can cause infection of the surgery site. It is also possible for them to chew open the surgery if they are not kept away from it.
How can spaying or neutering affect my cat's behavior?
Neutering usually helps with male cat behaviors such as spraying around the house and being aggressive or getting into fights. Spaying usually doesn't change female personality much, but it can help prevent fights.
Will spaying or neutering change my cat's personality?
Overall, spaying and neutering don't change their personality. They remain who they are.
What should I do if I notice complications after my cat's surgery?
If you notice any complications post-surgery, you should reach out to your veterinarian immediately. If it is in the middle of the night after surgery, then you should contact your nearest emergency clinic.
Can spaying or neutering prevent certain health issues in cats?
The health issues that spaying and neutering can prevent include certain types of cancers, uterine infection, and pregnancy.
How does spaying or neutering impact a cat's weight?
Cats are more prone to gaining weight after being spayed or neutered. Their metabolism usually slows down, but if you are careful with their calorie intake and exercise, this can be avoided.
Is it safe to spay or neuter a pregnant cat?
You can spay a pregnant cat if that's something you choose to do. Depending on how far along the pregnancy is, the babies may need to be humanely helped to pass along if they are not old enough to survive.
What should I discuss with my vet before scheduling spaying and neutering?
Discuss with your vet the questions we've covered: post-operative care, pre-operative care, and any preparations needed, including blood work before spays and neuters.
How do I choose a veterinarian for spaying or neutering my cat?
Most veterinarians should be capable of spaying and neutering a cat, but you need to choose someone you're comfortable with. Ensure they've done numerous surgeries and are completely at ease with the procedure.
How much does spaying or neutering a cat cost?
Spaying or neutering a cat depends on whether it's a female or a male, and we can provide an estimate for each individual as needed.
If you’re looking for veterinary care you can trust, call us at (845) 626-5555 or email [email protected]. We’re here to keep your pet healthy, happy, and thriving!