What's The Best Age To Spay/Neuter My Cat?

One question that many pet parents have is when they should spay or neuter their cat. As a pet parent, you'll want to make the most informed decision you can when it comes to your kitty. Below, we'll discuss the recommended age at which you should spay or neuter your cat. 

When Should You Spay Or Neuter Your Cat?

Based on recent studies, male cats should be neutered anywhere from six to ten months old or once you begin seeing signs of sexual maturity. Some signs to look for include spraying or urinating outside the litter box and humping. If you see any of these signs, it's time to call your vet to have them neutered. 

For female cats, you'll typically want to have them spayed anywhere from seven to twelve months of age, or once they go through their first heat cycle. You won't want them to go through anymore than one heat cycle. This means you'll need to watch your cat closely and look for any signs that could indicate it's time to have your kitty spayed. 

What To Look For After Surgery 

It's important to watch your pet closely after surgery and be proactive by contacting your vet right away if you notice issues like:

• Redness, a foul odor, discharge, or swelling around your cat's incision. 

• The incision gets torn open.

• Your pet doesn't eat or drink for over 24 hours or has persistent vomiting or diarrhea. 

• Your cat remains lethargic.

If you have any doubts, concerns, or questions about your pet after they are spayed or neutered, it's best to contact your vet!

Resources 

• 4 Tips for Post-Surgery Kitty Care - Seeing your cat in pain is never easy, but with these tips, the surgery process will go smoothly. These tips will also keep your cat as comfortable as possible!

• Pyometra - Avoid This Life-Threatening Pet Infection - Pyometra is an infection in female pets due to hormonal changes in their reproductive tract. The only way to truly prevent this infection is to have your pet spayed. Read more to discover why having your pet spayed is so important. 

• 5 Signs That Your Female Cat Is In Heat! - If your cat shows any of these signs, it's crucial that you contact your vet to get your cat spayed. 

Final Thoughts 

In conclusion, when they begin showing signs of sexual maturity is the best time to have your pet spayed or neutered. It's important to keep in mind that making an informed choice to have your pet spayed or neutered is the right choice!

With Love,

April Arguin A.S., C.P.N., M.P.H.

(aka) PetCoach-April