Neutering is a routine operation performed by a vet to remove a cat’s sex organs. This procedure ensures your cat is unable to reproduce and stops the production of hormones that are responsible for the cat’s sexual behaviour.
Why neuter?
There is a cat overpopulation crisis in the UK which results in many healthy cats and kittens being destroyed every day, and many will suffer and die of neglect.
Neutering is also a great way of preventing behavioural and medical problems.
Advantages of neutering
- Reduced fighting and associated injuries
- Reduction of ‘Tom cat odour’
- Improved breeding quality of cat population – reduction in number of kittens born with hereditary diseases and bad temperaments
- Reduced aggression towards other cats, due lo lack of testosterone
- Decreased spraying
- Prevents roaming, as they will generally not sense female pheromones
- Prevents unwanted litters
What age should you neuter your cat?
Male cats should be neutered at six months which is usually the time when they become sexually active, however, they can be neutered at any age thereafter. If a cat is neutered after he reached 12 months of age, beware that you may not enjoy the full behavioural benefits of neutering. This is because your cat has begun to learn behaviours like fighting and spraying by 1 year of age, he is no longer just responding to instinctive cues.
Procedure
The operation is carried out under general anaesthetic and involves the removal of the testicles through two small incisions made into the scrotal sacs. The procedure usually only takes a few minutes, and the total anaesthetic time is less than 15 minutes in most cases. Following the surgery, you will normally be able to take your cat home on the same day.
Cost
Cost varies between clinics but typically neutering costs approximately £40 – £80.
Breeding
If you decide to allow your cat to breed, do so responsibly. Ensure you will find homes for the kittens and find your cat a suitable female who has tested negative for FeLV and FIV.
Feeding your neutered cat
Once your cat is neutered it’s important to feed a good quality lower-calorie diet, which is specifically formulated for neutered cats to help control body weight. After neutering male cats’ energy requirements are slightly lower. It is recommended to feed higher protein quantities and foods containing L-carnitine to male neutered cats to help maintain a healthy weight.
Here are some of the foods for neutered cats that we recommend:
Royal Canin Neutered Young Male Adult
- Varied flavour profile for increased palatability
- High protein levels to reduce appetite, preventing overeating
- Designed as a complete meal for young male cats
- Suitable for use in homes with more than one cat.
- Suitable from neutering (6 months)
Hills Science Plan Young Adult Sterilised
- Unique WMF (weight management formula) to burn fat and build muscles.
- Controlled mineral levels to support urinary health.
- Highly digestible ingredients for optimal nutrient absorption.
- Made with high-quality ingredients for great taste. 100% guaranteed.
- Suitable from neutering (6 months)
Hill Science Plan Perfect Weight
- Clinically proven nutrition to help cats achieve a healthy weight
- Formulated to help keep the weight off
- Prebiotic fibres to support nutrient absorption and gentle digestion
- No added artificial flavours, colours or preservatives
PURINA PRO PLAN Sterilised Adult Cat Dry Food with Optisenses
- Salmon flavour your cat will enjoy
- High-protein, low-fat food satisfies your cat while keeping weight low
- Balanced minerals to help control kidney stone formation
- Kibble design contributes to your cat’s dental health.
