What is cat neutering?
Cat neutering is the process of removing a male cat's testicles. This term can also refer to spaying, which is the removal of the ovaries and uterus in a female cat, also known as an ovarian hysterectomy.
Dr. Noël Lucas
Blue Oasis Pet Hospital
How does spaying and neutering impact the health and well-being of a cat?
Spaying and neutering can prevent several unsavory behavioral issues in both male and female cats. Intact male cats may develop a habit of spraying urine on surfaces in the home, while intact females may exhibit annoying behaviors during their estrous cycles. Neutering male cats can also reduce their vulnerability to fighting and the transmission of infectious diseases like feline leukemia and FIV.
When should you bring your cat to get spayed or neutered?
Most cats are spayed or neutered around six months of age. However, the American Veterinary Medical Association states that cats can safely undergo these procedures as young as eight weeks of age.
How will spaying or neutering affect the overall behavior of my cat?
Neutering a male cat can significantly improve spraying behaviors, while spaying a female cat can stop their amorous estrus cycles. Additionally, neutering can reduce male cats' tendencies to fight each other for territory and mating rights, as well as their risk of contracting infectious diseases.
How should I care for my cat before and after a spay or neutering surgery?
Before the surgery, it is recommended that your cat takes some relaxation or calming medication. After the procedure, ensure that your cat stays indoors for at least one week, monitor their eating habits, and provide pain medication as prescribed. Observe the incision site daily and make sure your cat has a safe place to recover. If you have any specific questions or concerns about your cat's spay or neuter procedure, consult your veterinarian.
If you still have other questions and you'd like to reach out to us, you can call us directly at (615) 975-2583 , or you can email us at [email protected]. But please do reach out, and we'll get back to you as fast as we can. Don't forget to follow us on social media https://www.facebook.com/BlueOasisPetHospital/, https://www.instagram.com/blueoasispet/
Cat Spay & Neuter - FAQs
Dr. Noël Lucas
Blue Oasis Pet Hospital
How are cat spay surgeries performed?
Cat spay surgeries involve an ovario-hysterectomy, which means removing the ovaries and the uterus. The procedure is done under general anesthesia in a sterile surgical suite.
How are cat neuter surgeries performed?
Cat neuter surgeries involve removing the testicles through a scrotal incision over the scrotal area of a cat.
Will my cat require anesthesia for surgery?
Yes, general anesthesia is required for both cat neuter and spay surgeries as they are invasive procedures.
Will the spay or neuter be painful?
As they are surgeries, pain is expected. However, proper analgesics and pain management during the perioperative period can help lessen the pain. The goal is to prevent pain from happening as much as possible.
Are there any complications to spay or neuter surgery?
Complications in neutering can include post-operative hemorrhage, which can be avoided with good surgical technique. Infections at the incision site are rare but can occur. For spay surgeries, potential complications include abdominal infections (peritonitis), bleeding or hemorrhage within the abdominal cavity, ligatures not being tied correctly, or the surgical site opening up. However, these complications are incredibly rare when the procedure is performed by a trained veterinarian with good surgical technique.
How long does a cat spay or a neuter usually take?
A cat neuter typically takes about 5 to 10 minutes, while a spay may take 15 to 25 minutes, depending on the surgeon's skill.
Can I get a microchip during their spay or neuter?
Yes, it is recommended to microchip cats during their spay or neuter surgery, as they will be under sedation and general anesthesia. Microchips are inserted along the back over the shoulders. Microchipping is essential as it can be life-saving in case your cat gets lost or escapes without any other identification.
If you have any questions about spaying or neutering your cat, please reach out to Blue Oasis Pet Hospital.
If you still have other questions and you'd like to reach out to us, you can call us directly at (615) 975-2583 , or you can email us at [email protected]. But please do reach out, and we'll get back to you as fast as we can. Don't forget to follow us on social media https://www.facebook.com/BlueOasisPetHospital/, https://www.instagram.com/blueoasispet/
Cat Spay & Neuter - FAQs 2
Dr. Noël Lucas
Blue Oasis Pet Hospital
Will my vet give me post-operative instructions?
Absolutely. Your vet will provide discharge instructions on how to properly feed your cat, monitor the incision, what to watch for, and how to give the post-operative medications that they prescribe.
How long is the recovery after my cat's spay or neuter?
Recovery usually takes about a week. Cats may rebound faster, but it's important to let them take it easy, especially for females who have been spayed. Males may recover a bit faster, but on average, expect about a week for the incision to heal.
Will my cat gain weight after spay or neuter?
Weight gain depends on the cat and how much you're feeding them. Spaying or neutering does not directly cause weight gain. However, life stage changes and overfeeding can lead to obesity in some cats. It's important to monitor their food intake and adjust accordingly.
Will my cat need pain medication at home?
Yes. Cats who have been spayed will go home with a three-day supply of pain medication called Onseer, which is FDA-approved for use in cats. For neuters, an injection of Onseer is given, and additional pain medication may be provided depending on the doctor's recommendation and the cat's age.
Will my cat's personality change after being spayed or neutered?
No, your cat's personality will not change after spaying or neutering. If your cat is sweet and cuddly, they will remain that way. If they're rambunctious and adventurous, those traits will persist as well.
Will my tomcat stop running away if I neuter him?
Neutering an intact male cat can reduce their desire to roam in search of mates and defend their territory, which may keep them closer to home. However, it's still recommended to keep your cat indoors for their safety. Neutering also helps prevent unwanted pregnancies and reduces the overpopulation of feral cat communities.
If you still have other questions and you'd like to reach out to us, you can call us directly at (615) 975-2583 , or you can email us at [email protected]. But please do reach out, and we'll get back to you as fast as we can. Don't forget to follow us on social media https://www.facebook.com/BlueOasisPetHospital/, https://www.instagram.com/blueoasispet/