Spay Neuter FAQ
How old should my cat be before its spayed or neutered?
Typical age is six months - although in some situations cats will be spayed and/or neutered as early as 8-12 weeks.
How long after birth must I wait to get a female spayed?
It is best to wait until the female is no longer lactating (typically 6-8 weeks after delivery). The female can even become pregnant while she is lactating and nursing kittens. Therefore, it is important to plan the spay as soon as possible.
Is spaying or neutering a risky procedure?
Both surgeries require general anesthesia which does involve a small amount of risk of a fatal reaction to the anesthetic agent.
Anesthetic agents are extremely safe and there is more risk in a female breeding and having problems delivering her litter, acquiring a fatal infection, or later in life developing mammary cancer or uterine infections.
Can I have a female spayed while she is pregnant and what are the risks?
Yes, a female can be spayed while pregnant. A spay is an ovariohysterectomy, meaning the ovaries and uterus are removed (if there are feti in the uterus they will also be removed). The procedure itself takes a bit longer if the female is pregnant and is more difficult if the female is very close to delivery. Each veterinarian has there own preference whether or not they will perform the procedure based on physical exam of the female and the ethics of aborting a litter.
How long will my cat be hospitalized after the surgery?
Typically a male cat will go home the same day of the surgery. Female cats will either go home the same day or the next day after surgery depending on the veterinarians policy.
How much does spay or neuter surgery cost?
There's a wide range in charges depending on the veterinarians and where you live. Fees for males usually range from $80-130. Fees for females range from $100-150. |
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