What is Cat Sterilization?
Cat sterilization, commonly known as spaying (for females) or neutering (for males), is a surgical procedure that prevents cats from reproducing. In females, the surgery typically involves removing the ovaries and uterus. At Amber Vet, we offer a laparoscopic spay option for female cats, a minimally invasive procedure known for quicker recovery and reduced post-surgical discomfort. For male cats, neutering involves removing the testicles through two small incisions.
Health and Behavioural Benefits of Sterilization
Sterilizing your cat offers multiple health and behavioural benefits:
- Health Benefits:
- For Females: Reduces the risk of uterine infections (pyometra) and significantly lowers the chance of mammary tumors, which is often malignant in cats.
- For Males: Eliminates the risk of testicular cancer.
- Behavioural Benefits:
- For Females: Decreases mating calls (loud yowling) and roaming behaviour, which helps keep them safe indoors, and accidental pregnancy
- For Males: Reduces territorial spraying, aggressive tendencies, the urge to roam, which can lead to injuries or traffic accidents, and accidental pregnancy.
Misconceptions About Cat Sterilization
Many cat owners have concerns or misconceptions about sterilization:
- “Sterilization will change my cat’s personality.” Most cats retain their core personality traits. While some mating-driven behaviours may reduce, your cat’s affectionate or playful nature remains intact.
- “Only outdoor cats need sterilization.” Indoor cats also benefit from sterilization as it prevents health issues and reduces stress-driven behaviours, including lower urinary tract disease such as idiopathic cystitis (blood in urine).
- “Sterilization is unsafe or painful.” With advancements like laparoscopic spay and a variety of pain-relief medications given before, during and after surgery, sterilization is a safe procedure with quick recovery times, especially under the care of qualified veterinarians.
The Right Age for Cat Sterilization
Sterilizing cats at the right age helps maximize health benefits:
- Ideal Age: Cats are often sterilized around 5-6 months, just before reaching sexual maturity. Consult your veterinarian to determine the best time based on your cat’s health and breed.
The Sterilization Procedure for Cats
- Spaying (Female Cats):
- At Amber Vet, we use laparoscopic spay, a minimally invasive procedure.
- Two small keyhole incisions are made on the cat’s abdomen, and with the aid of a camera, the ovaries are removed.
- The smaller incisions means reduced pain, minimal scarring, and a quicker recovery compared to traditional spay surgery.
- Absorbable sutures are used, so suture removal is not usually necessary.
- Neutering (Male Cats):
- A small incision is made on each scrotum, and the testicles are removed.
- For cats, the incision typically doesn’t require sutures, as it heals quickly on its own.
- Pain management is provided throughout the procedure to ensure your cat’s comfort.
Both procedures are relatively quick, with cats typically able to go home the same day. Pain relief is provided before, during, and after the procedure to support a comfortable recovery.
Preparing Your Cat for Sterilization
Preparation is key for a smooth procedure and recovery:
- Pre-Surgical Check-Up: Pre-anaesthetic blood tests are recommended to assess liver and kidney functions, blood count and blood clotting function, ensuring safe anesthesia and surgery.
- Fasting: Follow the vet’s guidance on withholding food and water before the procedure to reduce anesthesia risks.
What Cat Owners Need to Know: Pre- and Post-Surgical Care
Here are important steps to ensure your cat’s comfort and safety:
- Before the Procedure:
- Comfortable Transport: Transport your cat in a well-ventilated, secure carrier to reduce stress before and after the surgery.
- Calming Measures: Talk to your veterinarian about safe methods to help reduce your cat’s stress, such as Feliway sprays or a familiar blanket in the carrier.
- After the Procedure:
- Quiet Environment: Create a calm, familiar space for your cat to rest after surgery, away from other pets and household activities.
- Monitor Activity: Limit jumping or active play during the first week to prevent strain on the surgical site, especially for females.
- Cone of Protection: Your cat needs to wear a cone (Elizabethan collar) to prevent licking the incision site, reducing the risk of infection.
- Check the Incision Site: Examine the incision daily for any signs of redness, swelling, or discharge. Contact your vet immediately if you notice any of these symptoms.
- Follow Pain Management Instructions: Follow your vet’s instructions on pain medication to ensure your cat’s comfort. Cats may hide pain, so be proactive with any prescribed pain relief.
Potential Concerns After Sterilization
- Weight Gain: Some cats may experience changes in metabolism post-sterilization, so monitor food portions and encourage play to prevent weight gain.
- Urinary Incontinence: Rare in cats but manageable with medication if it occurs.
- Behavioural Changes: While sterilization often reduces mating-related behaviours, it doesn’t negatively impact your cat’s personality or playfulness.
Is There Any Risk Involved?
Sterilization is generally a low-risk procedure:
- Anesthesia: Modern anesthesia is safe for most cats, and pre-surgical tests help identify any risks. With laparoscopy, female cats benefit from reduced incision size and minimized stress on the body.
Make the Responsible Choice – Book an Appointment with Amber Vet
Sterilization helps your cat lead a healthier, safer life and contributes to responsible pet ownership by reducing unwanted litters. Consult with your veterinarian to discuss any questions or concerns you may have before the procedure. Booking an appointment with Amber Vet is easy. You can go through our website or call our clinic to book a consultation. We have a staff team that is very friendly and will guide you throughout the process and answer your queries.