It’s estimated that between 5 and 8 million animals are euthanized across the US each year.
This is a staggering and upsetting figure, and a result of the lack of neutering and spaying of animals.
New cat owners are usually unaware of how old do cats have to be to get fixed. It’s often calculated by how much they weigh.
Male cats are fixed when they are around 2 to 2 ½ pounds. This is usually when they are around 8 weeks old.
Females are fixed at 2 ½ to 3 pounds. Generally when they are between 8 – 12 weeks. It’s advisable to do this sooner rather than later, to avoid the risk of a litter.
If cost is a concern. There are a lot of charities and organizations doing their best to help this problem. Offering low cost and subsidised services to neuter pets.
However, pet owners need to be responsible. Cat owners in particular. Cats roam around outside, and will have litters unless they are spayed.
Here are some of the commonly asked questions and answers around this topic:
Why Do Cats Have to Be Spayed or Neutered?
There are far too many stray and unwanted kittens being born each year. Euthanasia in shelters is the largest cause of animal death.
Neutering or spaying the cats is the only way to reduce this number. It makes your life easier, is the responsible thing to do, and prevents unwanted kittens.
How Much Does It Cost to Neuter a Cat and What If I Can’t Afford It?
It can typically cost around $100 if you call your local veterinarian practice. Prices do vary though, so it’s worth calling around a few places.
If you know you cannot afford it there are some other options. There are charities and aid if you’re in this position. The ASPCA keeps a database of centres that can help if you’re in this situation.
Will Neutering My Cat Stop the Spraying around the House?
Neutering or spaying a cat does take away a lot of their hormonal urge to spray. Studies show that neutering early can remove that urge entirely, making training a lot easier.
If your cat still sprays after being neutered, you should consult a veterinarian. They may be some other underlying issue.
Should I Spay My Cat When It’s a Kitten?
As long as your cat is 8 week old, and meets the weight requirements discussed above, yes. It used to be the norm to wait a lot longer, but this has now been proven to be incorrect.
Cats can be on heat at a very early age. At around six months old they can have their first litter, and they can produce 3 litters a year. So it’s an obvious choice to have a cat neutered early.
Not to mention that having a cat on heat can be annoying for everyone in the home. They become very noisy, sleep a lot less, and their behaviour becomes a lot more boisterous.
Is a Neutered Tomcat Less Likely to Run Away?
It’s true that tomcats that are not spayed are more likely to run away and find another home. They can be very fickle, spending a lot of time outdoors.
After being neutered a tomcat will often have a lot less desire to roam around. Every cat is different, but generally speaking it will become more of a homebody than before.
Do Cats Put on Weight after Being Neutered?
This is often said not because the procedure itself is conducive to putting on weight. But more so because the cat stays indoors for a while afterwards, and becomes more of a home cat after.
It’s up to you as their owner to provide plenty to do around the home to keep their exercise interesting. Maintain the portions of food carefully too, don’t over feed a cat. They are usually more than happy to eat way too much.
Does Neutering or Spaying a Cat Help Prevent Illnesses?
There are known to be less instances of mammary tumors in cats that have been neutered. It also removes the risk of uterus infections and diseases.
Male cats are no longer at risk of testicular disease. So there are some obvious upsides. It’s really a no brainer that taking responsibility and neutering or spaying your cat is the right thing to do.