Frequently Asked Questions about Cat Castration (Neutering)

Cat castration is the surgical procedure that is performed on male cats to remove their gonads. The sterilization procedure for females is known as spaying. The general term that can be used for the sterilization of both males and females is neutering. The castration of cats can prevent the pet from fertilizing adult females and will also have some health benefits, influencing the cat's behavior in a positive way. If you're considering castration for your pet, you must have a few questions.

What's the Best Time for Cat Castration?

The castration can be performed at any age, but the best time would be right before the cat becomes mature. This can be at 6 months or at 12 to 16 months, depending on the breed and the conditions in which the cat has lived.

What Does the Procedure Involve?

The castration is a simple procedure that involves the removal of the sex organs of the cat. The testicles will be removed and this means that the cat will no longer be able to fertilize another cat, and will no longer produce sexual hormones. The surgery is made under anesthesia.

What is the Duration of the Surgery?

Being a simple procedure, the neutering will take no more than 60 minutes. In the best case scenario, the procedure can take less than 30 minutes.

Are There Any Surgery Complications?

As with any surgical procedure, the sterilization may have complications. However, these complications rarely occur. The cat can bleed excessively during the surgery or the wound may get infected. Anesthesia may also be dangerous for cats that are allergic to certain anesthetics, or if the cat suffers from a heart condition. In rare cases, the testicles may not be properly removed, but this doesn't happen very often when the surgeon is an experienced vet.

How Do I Care for a Cat after Surgery?

The castration can be an outpatient procedure, but the vet may keep the cat under supervision for one night after the surgery. The cat will not feel discomfort, but may be in a bit of pain. The vet will prescribe some mild pain killers. You shouldn't allow your cat to perform strenuous activities for the following 2 weeks.

Monitor the wound and make sure the cat won’t lick or chew the area. If the wound looks swollen and red and the cat has a fever, consult your vet, as the wound may be infected.

How Will Castration Affect My Cat's Behavior?

After neutering, your cat may become more obedient, affectionate and friendly. He will no longer be interested in mating, so he is less likely to get in cat fights. If your cat has been spraying around the home, this behavior will probably stop within 6 months of the surgery.

Are There Any Health Benefits?

The removal of the testicles will mean that your cat will not be susceptible to testicle cancer or prostate problems. The incidence of urinary infections is lower in castrated cats.

Are There Any Drawbacks?

A cat that is neutered is more susceptible to joint disease and other cancers. Bladder incontinence is also common in older sterile cats.

What Should I Feed My Castrated Cat?

The diet of a castrated cat can be the same as his diet before the surgery, but you should reduce the amount of food, as the cat will be less active and may be prone to obesity.

 

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