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The Comprehensive Guide to Cat Spaying

Oct 18,2024 | puaintapets

Spaying your cat is an important aspect of responsible pet ownership. Also known as an ovariectomy, this procedure involves removing the ovaries and uterus of a female cat to prevent her from reproducing. While some owners may be hesitant to spay their cat because of concerns about the surgery, understanding the benefits and process can help alleviate these concerns. This comprehensive guide covers everything from the benefits of spaying and neutering to post-operative care to ensure your cat's health.

cat spayed

Why Spay A Cat?

Cat spay surgery has a positive impact on the health and behavior of cats in many ways.  Spaying can significantly reduce the risk of reproductive system diseases such as uterine stasis, inflammation of the mammary glands, ovarian tumors, enlarged prostate, etc., thus improving the quality of life and life expectancy of cats. In addition, spaying can reduce behavioral problems caused by heat, such as frequent calling, aggressive behavior, territorial marking and escape attempts, making cats more docile and manageable. Spaying can also control the number of stray cats and reduce ecological problems and animal welfare issues caused by over-breeding.

  • Spaying and Cat Behavior

Spaying often leads to positive changes in a cat's behavior. Cats may become calmer and less aggressive, and behaviors associated with heat cycles, such as excessive vocalization and marking, typically decrease or disappear altogether. This can make living with a spayed cat a more pleasant experience for both the owner and the animal.

  • Prevention of diseases

Spaying and neutering reduces the risk of reproductive disorders in cats, such as uterine pyometra and mammary tumours.

  • Health Benefits of Spaying

Spaying significantly reduces the risk of developing various cancers and infections related to the reproductive system. It also eliminates the risk of pyometra, a serious infection of the uterus that can be life-threatening if not treated promptly. Additionally, spaying can increase a cat's lifespan by preventing these health issues.

  • Spaying and Overpopulation

Overpopulation of cats is a significant issue in many communities, leading to overcrowded shelters and an increased number of stray cats. Spaying your cat helps control the population by preventing unwanted litters, thus reducing the strain on animal shelters and improving the quality of life for all cats.

  • Spaying Costs and Financial Considerations

The cost of spaying can vary depending on the location and the veterinarian. Some organizations offer low-cost spaying services to make it more accessible to pet owners. While there is an upfront cost, spaying can save money in the long run by preventing health issues that require expensive treatments.

When To Get Cat Spayed?

The best time to choose a cat for sterilization is usually when they reach 6 to 8 months of age, especially after the first heat. At this age, the reproductive system of the cat has basically developed, and the risk of spaying surgery is lower, and the recovery after surgery will be faster and better. Before the de-sexing surgery, it should be ensured that the cat weighs at least 6 pounds and has completed the necessary vaccinations. In addition, the sterilization surgery should be performed when the cat is not in heat to reduce the risk of surgery. Before the surgery, a thorough physical examination is also required to ensure that the cat is in good health. After spaying, proper care and monitoring should follow the veterinarian's instructions to promote rapid recovery. 

cat spayed

The cause of spaying at that time

  • Physiological maturity of development

The reproductive system of cats at this age has developed relatively well, and de-sexing surgery will have relatively little impact on the body. 

  • Avoidance of heat behavior

 At 6 to 8 months of age, cats have not yet entered the obvious heat period, and de-sexing can effectively prevent behavioral problems due to heat, such as frequent yowling and wandering. 

  • Reduce health risks

 Spaying can reduce the risk of cats developing reproductive system diseases such as uterine pus accumulation and mammary tumors in the future. 

  • Reduce surgical risks

Early spaying surgery may affect the cat's bone development and hormone levels, while late de-sexing may leave the cat with estrous behaviors and a weakened de-sexing effect. 

Improve the spaying success rate: de-sexing the cat when it is not in heat can reduce the amount of bleeding during the surgery and lower the risk of surgical failure. 

cat spay

How To Prepare Before Spaying?

Before a cat is spayed or neutered, pet owners need to carry out a series of preparations to ensure a smooth operation and the safety of the cat. The following are the key preparatory steps before spaying:

  • Health Check

Conduct a comprehensive health check, including routine blood tests, biochemical tests, electrocardiogram, etc. to ensure that the cat is fit for anesthesia and surgery. 

  • Vaccination

Ensure that the cat's vaccinations are up-to-date and antibody levels are satisfactory to reduce health risks during surgery and anesthesia.

Also Read: The Guide to Cat Vaccination Schedules

  • Fasting

Fasting is required for 4-12 hours prior to surgery, depending on your veterinarian's instructions.

  • Pre-operative Preparation Items

Prepare Elizabethan rings, air box, blankets, diaper pads, spay/neuter gowns, iodophor and cotton swabs, nail clipping tools, food and water bowls for postoperative use. 

  • Post-operative care preparation

Prepare the necessary items for post-operative care in advance, such as a comfortable resting area and special post-operative clothing. 

  • Sterilization Time

Choose the right time for the de-sexing surgery and avoid performing the surgery when the cat is in heat. 
Through the above preparation steps, the risks of de-sexing surgery can be minimized and the cat can be helped to recover safely and comfortably. Throughout the process, it is very important to closely follow up with your veterinarian's guidance and advice.

What are the Side Effects of Neutering Cats?

Spaying and neutering cats is a common procedure, and while it can bring many benefits, such as controlling reproduction and reducing heat behaviour, it also comes with a range of potential side effects and risks. Below is a detailed explanation of the side effects:

1. Anaesthesia risk

Any surgery requiring anaesthesia carries some anaesthetic risk and cats are no exception. Anaesthetic drugs may cause the following problems:

Allergic reaction: A small number of cats may be allergic to anaesthetic drugs, manifesting serious reactions such as lumps at the injection site, breathing difficulties and organ failure. Once an allergic reaction occurs during surgery, it may endanger the cat's life if not treated promptly.

Shock and death: although extremely rare, the risk of shock and death during anaesthesia still exists. The risk of anaesthesia is especially high for some cats with hidden diseases or weak physical condition. A comprehensive health check before surgery can effectively reduce this risk.

2. Post-operative infection

Surgical incisions that are not well cared for are susceptible to bacterial infection, leading to the following symptoms:

Redness, swelling and oozing of the incision: this is the most common symptom of infection, which manifests as redness, swelling, heat and pain around the incision, and in severe cases, pus will ooze out. Prompt treatment with antibiotics is required, otherwise the infection may spread and affect the overall health of the cat2.

Abscess or sinus formation: A small number of cats will have an allergic reaction to the suture material, resulting in draining wounds or tubes in the weeks following surgery. This situation usually requires another surgery to remove the suture material that triggered the allergy.

3. Reproductive alterations

Neutering is more than just contraception; it fundamentally alters the cat's reproductive system, which may have the following long-term effects:

Changes in hormone levels: Hormone levels in neutered cats will change significantly, especially the reduction of female or male hormones. This may affect the cat's bone development, joint health and so on. For example, male cats that are neutered too early may face problems with urethral stenosis, while female cats may have a higher risk of osteoporosis.

Increased risk of bone cancer: studies have shown that neutered cats are more likely to develop bone cancer (osteosarcoma). In particular, neutering before the age of one significantly increases the chances of developing bone cancer in old age. This may be due to the early absence of hormones that interfere with normal bone development.

Post-operative care for cats

How To Pick Up Cat After Spaying?

  • Caring for cat's surgical wounds

Make sure your cat wears an Elizabethan collar to prevent licking or scratching of the wound, which can lead to infection or delayed healing.

  • Ensure a comfortable environment

Provide a quiet, warm and comfortable recovery environment for the cat to avoid external disturbance and stimulation. 

  • Limit the cat's activities

The spayed cat needs to avoid strenuous activities and jumping to reduce the risk of wound dehiscence.

  • Avoid bathing

Avoid bathing your cat until the wound has healed to prevent wound infection or other health problems.

  • Soothing their emotions

The spay surgery may cause stress to the cat and more love and soothing is needed to help them through the recovery period.If your cat is too agitated, ask your veterinarian if you need to use medication to help calm your cat.

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  • Preventing excessive licking

If your cat has the habit of licking the wound, you can use an Elizabethan collar or other protective measures to prevent it. 

  • Pay attention to the use of medication

If the veterinarian prescribes medication for the cat, use it correctly according to the instructions and pay attention to observe the cat's reaction after the medication has been used.

cat spay

FAQs 

Can You Spay a Pregnant Cat?

Pregnant cats can be spayed in some cases, but this requires careful veterinary evaluation and expertise. Mid-pregnancy sterilization, called abortion, involves the removal of both the uterus and ovaries, or just the ovaries. This procedure is higher risk compared to regular spaying and neutering because the dilation of the uterus and increased vascularity during pregnancy can lead to bleeding and infection problems during the procedure. 

Before deciding to perform the sterilization surgery, the veterinarian will usually recommend a series of tests, including blood biochemistry, blood routine, antibody tests, as well as cardiac ultrasound and coagulation tests to assess the cat's physical condition and risks of the surgery. Post-surgical care is also very important, including monitoring the cat's recovery, wound care, restriction of activities and may require hospitalization for observation. 

If the cat is de-sexed during pregnancy, special attention needs to be paid to the use of post-surgical retrograde medication to avoid mammary gland disease. In addition, de-sexing surgery can reduce the risk of cats suffering from diseases related to the reproductive system, such as uterine inflammation and ovarian cysts, and help to control the growth of the stray cat population. 

Overall, sterilization of pregnant cats is feasible, but must be performed under the guidance of a veterinarian to ensure the safety of the mother cat and unborn kittens. If your cat is pregnant and considering de-sexing surgery, it is recommended to consult an experienced veterinarian and follow his/her professional advice.

How long do female cats need to recover after spaying?

About 2 hours after the operation, the mother cat will wake up from the anaesthesia and can move slowly. During this time, the mother cat's mobility is limited because the effects of the anaesthetic drugs have not yet completely worn off. At this stage, the mother cat may appear groggy and even somewhat disorientated.

Wound care (1-10 days)

  • Wear an Elizabethan collar: Wear an Elizabethan collar immediately after surgery to prevent licking of the wound, which can lead to infection. The Elizabethan ring needs to be worn around the clock until the stitches are removed.

Daily Care (1-14 days)

  • Restriction of activities: Limit the cat's range of activities within 2 days after surgery, avoid jumping and running to prevent wound tearing. A quiet, warm and comfortable recovery environment can be prepared, such as a special litter or cage, so that the cat can rest at ease.

Complete recovery (10-30 days)

  • Complete physical recovery: It usually takes 15-30 days for the mother cat's body to fully recover. During this period, pay attention to the overall state of the cat, including appetite, vigour and defecation, to ensure that everything is back to normal. If you find any abnormalities, you should seek medical attention promptly

How Long Can I Bathe My Cat After Spaying ?

The time to bathe your cat after de-sexing depends on the recovery of the wound. Generally speaking, if the cat's wound is properly cared for, the wound can recover in 7-14 days after de-sexing. Some veterinarians recommend that you can bring your cat to the hospital for a review about 10 days after the de-sexing surgery, and if the doctor confirms that the wound is recovering well, then you can bathe your cat after a week. Alternatively, it is also recommended to bathe the cat at least two weeks after the spaying surgery to ensure complete wound healing. Before bathing, you should ensure that your cat's wound is dry and clean and continue to monitor the wound to prevent infection. If there are any concerns, it is best to follow your veterinarian's instructions.

Conclusion

Spaying is a crucial part of responsible pet ownership, offering numerous health and behavioral benefits while also helping control the cat population. By understanding the procedure, its benefits, and post-operative care, owners can ensure their cats live healthier, happier lives. Always consult with a qualified veterinarian to make the best decision for your pet's well-being.

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