Spay or Neuter a Cat

To spay or neuter a cat is an emotional issue. There are groups and cat owners on both sides of the fence.


Those Opposed to Spay and Neutering Cats

These groups and individuals strongly believe spaying and neutering cats is not in the best interests of cats. They also believe it is selfish and a little too convenient a way to eliminate the free nature of cats, including the noisy disturbance caused by cats in heat, a pesky urban problem that too often disturbs the sleep of some city dwellers.

This certainly must have bothered some urban lawmakers, as laws are now on the books in some counties and municipalities in the United States that mandate automatic sterilization of all cats unless a license is purchased for (as opponents say) the privilege of not “mutilating” privately owned cats. They believe such laws are a infringement of the fundamental rights of owners.

They further believe the surgery is too painful for the cat and too expensive for us humans. They are correct in pointing out that some welfare groups do voice opposition to all government pet sterilization programs because of the cost.

In addition, some groups and individuals strongly feel that it takes a certain non-caring attitude for the magnificence of Mother Nature and the “natural order of things” to have pets spayed or neutered. Therefore, they oppose such procedures on these moral grounds.


Those For Spaying and Neutering Cats

There are many people including most Humane Societies that feel quite strongly that the spaying and neutering of cats is good for the cat and good for society. In fact, animal sterilization programs have been hailed as a major cause in lowering the huge number of unwanted litters of cats and preventing our animal rescue shelters (and our neighborhoods) from being overwhelmed by unwanted cats.

As it is, the number of pets arriving at shelters nationwide is staggering. Only one in ten cats is adopted. The rest, 90%, must be euthanized. In fact, about 13.5 million cats and dogs are euthanized every year in the States. This is appalling.

This alone is a powerful reason to support the spaying and neutering of cats and dogs.

However in addition, there are other benefits to consider. Spayed or neutered cats are calmer, more gentle and affectionate to their owners. They are not so inclined to continually mark or spray their territory. It is interesting to note there are fewer health problems, including less infections and cancer among “fixed” cats. Neutered cats (male cats) will remain much better groomed and will not develop the strongly scented urine of adult males. Neutered cats will also be inclined not to fight other male cats and will not take such long strays from home. Spayed cats (female cats) will be free from their many noisy heat cycles.


My Opinion

In my opinion those in opposition to “fixing” cats and dogs have interesting points. I am sympathetic especially to the principle of the rights of the animal owners and our need to respect Nature.

However, which approach will cause less pain and suffering to our animal friends?

I think there is no question that spaying and neutering cats will prevent less animal pain and suffering and in so doing shows the highest respect for our cats, and therefore also the highest respect for Mother Nature.

The time when a cat should be “fixed” is open to opinion. Some feel it is better to spay or neuter kittens early, even at 12 weeks old. Others believe 12 months old is better. However, I believe you should have your pets spayed or neutered at 5 or 6 months old, before they reach their sexual maturity with its behavioral problems.

Of course, whether or not to spay or neuter a cat is your decision. Speak with your veterinarian. He or she would be pleased to discuss the options available and answer all of your questions.