Spay and Neuter Cat Myths

Spay and Neuter Myths

Is it true that neutered or spayed cats get fat and lazy?

It is true that after a cat is altered that its metabolism can change. Some cats do not require as much food to maintain a healthy weight. Americans tend to overfeed their cats which results in obese and unhealthy cats. So cut down on the kibble a bit after your cat gets spayed or neutered to fight unwanted weight gain.

Is spay or neuter safe for kittens that are only 8 weeks of age?

Shelters in the United States and Canada have performed early spay and neuter for more than 40 years. Therefore, a lot of data exists on the effects of early altering of young kittens. There is no evidence of adverse effects on kittens or their growth into a mature cat. However, very young kittens can be susceptible to hypothermia (lower than normal body temperature) during surgery. Therefore may require that surgery and anesthesia procedures be modified in order to keep the kittens warm. Studies have shown that when a kitten is neutered or spayed at a young age they have faster recovery times than those neutered at an older age

Is it true that a female cat should go through at least one heat cycle before spaying?

No. In fact, there are several reasons to get the cat spayed before she has her first heat cycle:

  • A heat cycle could result in an unwanted or unplanned pregnancy which can adversely affect the health and well-being of a cat too young to be bred or to effectively "mother" her offspring.
  • Accidents happen when a cat in heat attempts to leave their home and/or yard to find mates and may get injured or killed by other animals or hit by a car when attempting to locate a mate.
  • Where a female cat is in heat she will attract male cats around the home, yard and neighborhood. This sudden influx of Lotharios leave droppings, spray plants and the sides of the home to mark their territory. Where there are males vying for the attention of a female there will be fights which can result in injury or death. Additionally, there will be very loud, constant vocalizing (howling) from both the female and male cats 24 hours a day until the female is no longer in heat.
  • There is research to support that an altered cat has a 40-60% lower risk of developing mammary cancer than those who have not been spayed or neutered.