At RSPCA Oxfordshire, we are seeing an increasing number of pregnant cats and unexpected litters, highlighting the importance of neutering. Neutering your pet is a simple and effective way to prevent unwanted pregnancies, protect their health, and promote better behaviour.
Here’s everything you need to know.
What is Neutering?
Neutering is a routine surgical procedure that prevents animals from reproducing. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- For Females (Spaying): The ovaries and womb are removed, preventing pregnancy.
- For Males (Castration): The testicles are removed, reducing unwanted behaviours and health risks.
- It is carried out under general anaesthetic, and pets usually recover quickly.
- Neutering does not automatically lead to weight gain – your vet can provide advice on managing your pet’s diet.
- There is no benefit in allowing your pet to have one litter first – speak to your vet about the best timing for neutering.
Why Neutering is Essential
Neutering offers significant benefits for your pet’s health and wellbeing, including:
- Preventing Health Issues: Reduces the risk of testicular cancer in males, and uterine infections and cancers in females.
- Reducing Unwanted Behaviours: Lowers the chances of urine marking, roaming, and aggressive behaviour in males.
- Controlling the Population: Helps prevent the birth of unwanted litters and reduces the risk of birth defects from inbreeding.
- Avoiding Mess: Unspayed females can experience bleeding when in season – neutering prevents this.
- Lowering the Risk of Theft: Neutered pets are less likely to be targeted for illegal breeding.
- Saving on Vet Bills: Prevents costly complications related to pregnancy and birth.
Urgent: Tackling the Cat Crisis
The UK is facing a cat population crisis, with more cats in need of homes than ever before. By ensuring your cats are spayed or snipped at an early age, you are directly helping us tackle this crisis.
Speak to Your Vet
If you are considering neutering your pet, the best first step is to talk to your vet. They can provide advice on the ideal time to neuter your pet and discuss the costs involved. Neutering is an investment in your pet’s long-term health and happiness – please don’t delay.
Support RSPCA Oxfordshire
If you would like to support our work helping animals in need, please consider donating, volunteering, or adopting from us. Together, we can make a difference.
