So, you are thinking of letting your female cat have “just one litter”, or perhaps you are putting off spaying her until a later date, or maybe you’re not even considering it. As a savvy (and neutered) female cat, who is passionate about cat welfare, I thought I’d put forward the reasons why spaying your cat is a good idea.
Did you know around two-thirds of all cat litters are unplanned? This means that if your female cat is un-neutered, she has a high chance of getting pregnant this year – are you going to be responsible for finding GOOD homes for all the kittens?
Still think neutering is not for your cat?
Females can have up to 3 litters a year – with an average of 6 kittens per litter = a lot of kittens (and extra expense) to potentially deal with!
Even if you think you can guarantee good homes for all the kittens, how about the health implications on your cat or the kittens?
• If you neuter your cat early on, you reduce the risk of them getting breast cancer or infections of the womb (known as pyometra) - both of these can be fatal.
• Pregnancy and giving birth are not without risks, for example, a caesarean may be required if there are problems birthing.
• Potential extra care is needed if the mother rejects any babies (such as bottle feeding every 2 hours, including through the night for 3-4 weeks).
Last week, I read about 15 kittens that were found in a suitcase and left on the streets. Unfortunately, this is not an isolated incident. All over the country Cat Rescue Centres are full up with cats waiting for a forever home – and those are the lucky ones as many are abandoned and dumped. With so many unwanted cats out there, should we not be helping to rehome them rather than potentially creating an even bigger problem?
From one cat to all you owners out there, I advise you to spay your cat at 4 months (at this age, your kitten will have already reached sexual maturity and can become pregnant). The operation is safe to be carried out at this age and it eliminates any worry about her getting pregnant. The idea of kittens may sound cute but think carefully of the implications.
But Purdy, I hear you ask – I’m worried about my cat having an operation.
Well, let me put your mind at rest and let you know what will happen.
Check over…..
In the morning, your cat will be checked over by the veterinary surgeon to ensure they are healthy enough for the operation to take place.
Accomodation….
Your cat will be housed in a comfy kennel with a heat mat, vet bed and a hide (I have been in and inspected/ stayed there). They also use Pet Remedy spray in kennels which helps to reduce stress – it’s good stuff! I know how stressful it can be when having to go to the vets, but it helps when there is a calming environment. Lowesmoor is working towards being registered as a Cat Friendly Practice, so all the staff here are ensuring their cat handling skills are as I’d expect.
The op…..
The operation is performed under a general anesthetic through a small incision in the flank or the underside of the tummy. Both ovaries are removed, along with the uterus. Throughout the procedure they are closely monitored by a qualified veterinary nurse. Pain relief is a priority at Lowesmoor Vets so you can be reassured that your feline friend will be comfortable (I could not write for a company that didn’t put cat comfort first!)
Home time…..
When they go home that evening, a vet nurse will discuss post-operative care with you and your cat will continue on pain relief for a few days after the operation. Accessory wise, you have the choice of a collar or a body suit for your cat (I had a collar - I hated it but I know I would have licked it like mad and caused a problem had my human not been firm with me). Your cat will normally come back for a post-op check in a couple of days' time, although a nurse will call the following day in case you have any concerns.
If you have any questions or worries about neutering your cat, give the guys a buzz at Lowesmoor – they’ll only be too happy to answer any queries.
Purdy
xx