Castration of a cat
Å neuter the cat yours is a sensible decision if you have no plans to use it for breeding. This procedure is routinely performed by our experienced veterinarians, and it not only helps to prevent unwanted kittens, but also provides several other benefits. Neutering, or neutering for male cats and neutering for female cats, significantly reduces the risk of certain health problems and unwanted behaviour.
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Advantages of neutering a cat
Castration of a cat, whether they are male or female cats, has many positive effects both for the animal itself and for society. This intervention helps to improve the cat's quality of life and reduces unwanted consequences such as overproduction and aggressive behavior patterns. It is a sensible step to avoid unwanted pregnancy among both male and female cats. Castration is therefore recommended before the cat becomes sexually mature, in both sexes.
Castration (sterilization) of female cats
Unneutered female cats experience heat at regular intervals, usually every three weeks during the mating season. The running time is characterized by the cat rolling around, being loud, or marking the area with urine to attract male cats. After castration, the duration ends and this behavior changes.
One of the main advantages of castration is the prevention of unwanted breeding. Castration helps to reduce the number of unwanted litters and thus control the population. This reduces the need for adoption or, in the worst case, euthanasia of cats that cannot find loving homes.
For those who want the possibility of breeding in the future, birth control pills may be an option. However, this provides less safety, as the cat may vomit or spit out the pill. Castration also reduces the risk of udder tumors and cyst formation in the udder, and prevents uterine inflammation.
Castration of a male cat
Castration has several positive effects on the male cat's behaviour. Unneutered male cats often show dominance behavior and tend to be more territorial, aggressive and mark their territory by spraying urine. They can get involved in fights with other cats, and are therefore more susceptible to infectious diseases from bites. Neutering significantly reduces these behavioral problems, creating a calmer and more social environment for both the cat and its owner. Early castration is recommended to change learned behavior patterns.
Health benefits are also an important factor to consider. Castration reduces the risk of certain types of cancer and prevents the development of diseases that can affect the reproductive organs. This gives the male cat a chance to live a longer and healthier life.
It is important to note that neutering is a routine procedure and most cats adapt quickly after the procedure. Pet owners are encouraged to consult their veterinarian to discuss the best schedule for neutering based on their cat's age and health status. If you are in Larvik, you can contact us using the button below.
When can cats be castrated?
When it comes to neutering cats, it is usually recommended to carry out the procedure when the cat is around 5 to 6 months old. This time is considered optimal to prevent unwanted reproduction and reduce the risk of health problems. However, we can adapt the recommendations based on individual circumstances, such as the breed and the cat's health.
Implementation of casting
Cats that are neutered should be healthy, at least 4 months old, and weigh a minimum of 2,5 kg. During castration of female cats, the operation is carried out in full anesthesia, where the uterus and ovaries are removed. Male cats are castrated by tying off blood vessels and vas deferens, and removing the testicles. Care after the operation is important, with careful follow-up of the stitches. The process is usually safe and is performed by our experienced veterinarians. Here is an overview of the implementation of castration in cats:
Preparation
Before the operation itself, the cat is carefully examined by the vet to ensure that it is in good health. Blood tests may be taken to evaluate organ function and ensure that the cat can tolerate anaesthesia. Fasting procedures may also be recommended, usually 12 hours before surgery.
anesthesia
The cat is then given a general anesthetic to ensure that it is unconscious and pain-free throughout the operation. Our veterinarians carefully monitor the cat's vital signs throughout the process.
Surgery
After the cat is anaesthetised, the vet carries out the surgical procedure. In male cats, this usually involves the removal of the testicles through small incisions. For female cats, the procedure is slightly more complex, as it involves the removal of the ovaries and uterus through a larger incision.
After castration
After castration, the cat is carefully monitored while it wakes up from the anaesthetic. Pain medication may be administered to ensure the cat's comfort during the recovery period. The owner is often given instructions on postoperative care, including how to manage wounds, administer medications, and limit activity in the first few days after the procedure.
Recovery
Most cats recover quickly from neutering, but it is important to give them sufficient time to fully recover. Activity restrictions and wound monitoring are important aspects of this period.
Aftercare in neutered cats
The cat can usually go home the same day as the operation, but may be a little lethargic. Give it a warm and safe place to rest and lay out towels in case of an accident. After the operation, the cat should not be alone, and it will be given a prescription for painkillers.
ID marking
Many people want to ID mark the cat at the same time as castration. ID marking is done by implanting a microchip under the cat's skin, and it is common to want a small tattoo in the ear showing that the cat is ID marked (especially if it does not wear a collar). This is done under anaesthesia, and it is therefore suitable to do it at the same time as castration.
It is strongly recommended to ID tag all cats in order to easily contact the owner if the cat should go missing. If the cat should be involved in an accident or get hit, ID marking is also very important. This enables the veterinary clinic to contact the owner quickly and start treatment effectively. Some also use the ID chip as an entry key to the cat flap, so that only their own cat has access.
Risks when neutering a cat
Castration can lead to obesity, as hormone production affects appetite and combustion. This can be prevented by adapting the cat's eating habits and choosing the right feed. If you're looking for the best cat food to keep the furry boss of the house healthy and happy, check out our online pet shop.
Price for neutering a cat
Do you have questions about neutering a cat? Get in touch with us and see our price overview here!
