Neutering is one of the most important things you can do for your cat’s health and wellbeing. This simple procedure, known as spaying for females and the snip for males, helps prevent unwanted litters, improves behaviour, and protects against serious diseases.
Every year, thousands of unwanted kittens end up in rescue centres, and neutering is the best way to prevent this. Even if you think your cat is unlikely to mate, it only takes a moment for an unneutered pet to find a mate and contribute to the rising number of stray cats.
Here’s why neutering is vital and what you need to know before taking your cat to the vet.
Why Female Cats Should Be Spayed
Female cats can get pregnant from as young as four months old, while they’re still kittens themselves. Spaying your cat before this age prevents unplanned pregnancies and eliminates the stress of going into heat.
Common Myths About Spaying:
🚫 “She should have a litter before being spayed.” – This is a common misconception. There are no health benefits to letting a cat have a litter first, and spaying early helps avoid complications later.
🚫 “She’ll be missing out on something.” – Once spayed, your cat will still do everything cats love—climbing, playing, hunting, and exploring—without the risk of unwanted pregnancies.
Why Male Cats Should Be Neutered
For male cats, neutering helps reduce aggressive and territorial behaviour. Unneutered males are far more likely to:
✔️ Spray urine indoors – Neutering significantly reduces the risk of strong-smelling territorial marking.
✔️ Fight with other cats – This can lead to injuries, abscesses, and the spread of diseases.
✔️ Wander far from home – Unneutered males are more likely to roam, putting them at higher risk of accidents and getting lost.
✔️ Contract FIV (Feline Immunodeficiency Virus) – The cat equivalent of HIV, FIV is spread through bites and fights between unneutered males.
Neutering helps keep male cats healthier and safer, while also making them more content to stay close to home.
What’s Involved in the Neutering Procedure?
Neutering is a routine, one-day procedure performed by a vet under general anaesthetic. Your cat will need to:
1️⃣ Be dropped off at the vet in the morning.
2️⃣ Undergo the operation (a small incision for females, a quicker procedure for males).
3️⃣ Rest indoors for a short period—your vet will advise on recovery time.
Most cats bounce back quickly and return to their usual selves within a few days.
Can You Get Help with the Cost of Neutering?
If you’re on benefits, you may be eligible for help with the cost of neutering. Other charities, such as Cats Protection, also offer assistance. Contact us to find out more about available support.
The Reality of Letting Your Cat Have Kittens
While the idea of a litter of kittens may seem appealing, it can be far more challenging than people expect. A study found that:
📌 60% of cat owners who let their cat have kittens wouldn’t do it again.
📌 52% struggled to find good homes for the kittens.
📌 30% found it harder than expected to care for a pregnant cat and a litter.
📌 12% had no choice but to rely on rescue centres to take in the kittens.
Many owners find it heartbreaking to part with kittens or to see their cat go through pregnancy and birth. Neutering is a responsible decision that prevents these challenges while ensuring your cat’s health and happiness.
Why Neutering is the Best Choice
Neutering isn’t just about preventing unwanted kittens—it improves your cat’s quality of life, reduces the risk of disease, and helps manage behaviour. Whether you have a male or female cat, booking a neutering appointment early is one of the best ways to keep them safe, healthy, and happy.
Need advice on neutering? Contact us today to find out more.
