Controlling the reproduction of pets is always an indispensable issue, and we must take into account. In the case of cats, being able to moderate them can be beneficial; both for the health of the animal, and for the well-being of the community in which we live. Remember that it will always be important to implement mechanisms to prevent the proliferation of stray animals that may be vectors of diseases.
We will tell you what are the benefits of neutering or sterilizing your cats, and at what age it is most appropriate to perform this procedure.
Here are some things to keep in mind about felines: Cats can get pregnant from six months, and almost always have two jealousy a year. In case they become pregnant, they can have between three and twelve kittens.
When cats are still small it is much easier to give them up for adoption. But as they grow and become adults, the chance of them being adopted decreases, since the vast majority of people prefer to raise them from a very young age.
Differences between castration and sterilization
Neuter or spay surgery is low risk, and your pet will likely return home within hours of surgery. As recommended by the veterinary specialists, at the time of performing the operation, it is ideal that the cat is not in heat.
Both interventions are low risk.
In the case of male cats, castration consists of removing the testicles; In females, ovaries are removed, and in some cases also the uterus. Moreover, sterilization consists of ligating the fallopian tubes in the female, while in males, it consists of cutting the seminiferous ducts.
In both cases, the animal will continue to have periods of heat for a few months accompanied by typical behaviors, such as meowing, marking territory or frequently licking the genital area.
Either of the two procedures mentioned above prevents unwanted pregnancy of the animal.
Benefits of castration or sterilization
- Your cat will have a longer life, as these interventions can prevent them from getting urinary tract infections and breast cancer.
- If your cat is male, it is a measure thatcan help prevent testicular cancer.
- The female does not go into heat.
- The male will not leave his house when he detects a female in heat.
- Their behavior will be more docile, they will stop marking territory, and have aggressive reactions. Behavioral changes are due to the reduction of sex hormones.
- It is good for population control and public health, since it does not generate an overpopulation of stray animals that can contract diseases and spread them to humans.
The masters must lose their fear of this internevition. Photo illustration Shutterstock
Right age to sterilize your cat
It is advisable to go to a veterinarian who can give you the necessary advice on when is the ideal time for your pet. In general, this intervention is usually performed before the cat reaches the age of sexual maturity, that is, between 5 and 8 months.
The Ministry of Health promotes free castration from pets over 6 months of age. This management is organized by each municipality and the shifts are in order of arrival, for more information you can enter this website.
On the day that the surgery is going to be performed, the cat must have 12 hours of fasting and 3 without liquid. If you want more information about the castration process in the City of Buenos Aires you can see on this site.
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