The question ‘does neutering a cat stop spraying’ often gets mixed responses from cat lovers from across the globe. Some are of the opinion that this method is only effective on a male cat.
Others are of the opinion that neutering cats is a complete waste of time as it yields no result whatsoever. This contradiction is owing to the lack of knowledge on the term ‘neutering’.
Most believe it has something to do with ‘stopping the cat from peeing indoors’.
This is ridiculous yet in sync with the mind-set of many cat lovers that have little knowledge on this subject.
So, in order to provide clarity to the term ‘neutering’ and its consequences on your feline companion, let me initiate this article.
Does Neutering a Cat Stop Spraying Article Contents
1) What is Neutering a Cat?
2) How to Neuter a Female Cat?
3) What is the Post-Operative Care for a Sprayed Female Cat?
4) How to Neuter a Male Cat?
5) What is the Post-Operative Care for a Neutered Male Cat?
6) What are the Benefits of Neutering Cats?
7) What are the Drawbacks of Neutering a Cat?
8) FAQ on Does Neutering a Cat Stop Spraying?
9) Final Words
What is Neutering a Cat?
Unlike the popular belief and confusion with ‘stopping the animal from peeing indoors’ neutering is an act of removing the reproductive organs of a cat.
In male cats, this act is termed as ‘castration’. In female cats, the term used is ‘spraying’. In some areas, neutering is also referred to as ‘fixing’. The main reason behind this act is to stop the cats from reproducing.
In most cases, you shall witness neutering in animal shelters or when an animal is rescued. Castration and spraying ensures that the cat’s population is kept under control.
How to Neuter a Female Cat?
There are several ways in which a female cat can be neutered. Well, here are the main surgical methods that are used for achieving this aim:
Ovo-Hysterectomy: The term used for removing the reproductive organs of a female cat is ovo-hysterectomy. This is a surgical procedure wherein the ovaries and uterus of the female cat is removed.
Oophorectomy: This is yet another surgical procedure wherein the ovaries of a female cat are removed. In this procedure, the uterus of the cat is allowed to remain in their original position.
Ovary Sparing Spray: In this method, one of the ovaries is removed while the other is left untouched. The ovary is also removed in this process.
What are the Different Type of Surgical Procedures used for Neutering Female Cats?
There are two types of surgical procedures available. The first is open surgery while the other is laser surgery. The latter is also termed as laparoscopy. The former is cost effective while the ‘key-hole’ surgery is expensive.
Open Surgery:
This is a traditional way wherein the stomach of the cat is opened via a scalpel. The incision starts at the umbilical. After identifying the uterine horns, the surgeon follows them till he locates the ovaries. The surgeon then removes them (ovaries and uterus).
After a careful examination of the stomach, the abdominal wall is stitched back. This is a three pronged process. After the bleeding has stopped, the surgeon first seals the linea alba.
Then, the subcutaneous layer is closed. Finally, the skin is stapled or glued. Sometimes, the skin is also closed using suture bites placed at 5mm gap.
Laparoscopy Surgery:
In this surgical procedure, a key-hole sized incision is made. Two incisions are made (5mm to 10mm in diameter). The first is made just behind the umbilicus. A small tube containing a camera is inserted.
Using carbon di-oxide gas, the abdominal cavity of the cat is inflated. Thereafter, the second hole is made slightly in front of the naval. The doctor inserts Babcock forceps via this port.
Laser rays are diverted to the ovaries and uterus. Once decimated, the remains are sucked out via a tube. This surgical procedure is less invasive, less painful and helps the cat to recover faster.
Non-Surgical Procedure:
Antigens made from porcine zona pellucida is injected into the body of a female cat. This concoction binds ZP3 thereby blocking the sperm from ovulating.
Points Covered while Spraying a Female Cat:
Spraying of cat implies the use of ovariohysterectomy wherein the reproductive system of a cat is removed. This stops the female from childbearing. So, here is how it all happens:
@ The vet injects analgesic as well as anxiety relieving medicines to the female cat.
@ A pain relieving anesthetic shall be injected to the female cat. This shall also put her to sleep.
@ A staff that helps the vet shall monitor the vitals of the cat. This includes oxygen levels, the heart rate, the breathing pattern and blood pressure. Any discomfort faced by the animal shall be looked into by the staff.
@ An incision shall be made by the vet at the abdomen of the female cat. The uterus and ovaries are removed. Even the fallopian tubes are removed.
@ The incision is then sealed by the vet.
What is the Post-Operative Care for a Sprayed Female Cat?
After the female cat has been castrated, you need to make her as comfortable as possible. Here is how you can help the female cat recover from this traumatic condition:
@ Always make a space for the cat that is kept separate and cosy. It should be a silent place that is not usually frequented by humans or animals.
@ You should stop the female cat from stepping outside. Ensure to keep it within closed doors at all times. After all, the more she rests, the quicker shall your cat recover.
@ Apply an e-collar if the female cat tends to lick the wound. If possible, persuade your cat to stop licking the operation site.
@ If there is any redness or swelling on (or near) the incision area then, inform the vet at the earliest. I (LeanAndFit) would do so without a second thought.
@ In case of blood emission or pus development, take the cat immediately to the vet for further inspection.
@ You need to keep a close watch over the diet and sleep pattern of the cat.
How to Neuter a Male Cat?
The art of neutralizing the reproduction organs of a male cat is termed as neutering a male cat. This process is also termed as ‘castration’. This usually involves removing the testicles of the male cat using surgical procedures.
What are the Different Types of Surgical Procedures used for Neutering Male Cats?
There are three types of surgical procedures that a surgeon can undertake in order to castrate a male dog. Let me walk you through each of these in brief:
Tubal Ligation:
In this surgical procedure, the fallopian tubes are first snapped from their joints. Thereafter, they are tied together to avoid any chance of reproduction.
Vasectomy:
This is the most popular surgical procedure to castrate a male cat. In the procedure, the vasa deferentia ducts are first cut and then tied to prevent sperm from making its way into the urethra.
Sometimes, the vasa deferentia are sealed after being cut to deliver similar results. As compared to tubal ligation, Vasectomy is a more expensive procedure.
Non-Surgical Procedure:
An injection made from calcium chloride is administered to male cats. This formulation helps the animal to become infertile.
Points Covered while Neutering a Male Cat:
@ It is a surgical procedure wherein calming and pain relieving medications are provided to the cat.
@ The vet shall administer anesthesia to the cat. This shall help the animal remain free from unnecessary pain.
@ The anaesthesia plane, the blood pressure, the oxygen level and the current physical health of the animal is monitored by the vet and his staff.
@ A small incision is made near the scrotum. The testicle is removed. The spermatic cord & the blood supply are cut off.
@ The incision is closed by stitches.
What is the Post-Operative Care for a Neutered Male Cat?
@ You need to allow the male cat to remain in the hospital or dispensary till the vet deems fit for a release. Never rush the cat home to save money.
@ The diet and medication as prescribed by the vet, needs to be administered to the animal.
@ Stop the male cat from licking his wound. Doing so shall slow down the healing process.
@ If you find any disruption in the incision area, report to the vet immediately. This could include red marks, inflammation and even bleeding.
@ The male cat should be kept isolated in a safe area. You should limit its interaction with other pets.
@ Allow the animal to step outside of the secure area only when the surgical wound has completely healed.
What are the Benefits of Neutering Cats?
@ Neutering a cat helps in relaxing the raging hormones. So, the incidences of mounting are reduced considerably.
@ This process helps in reducing the number of times a cat sprays at home. This is because the sex hormones have been tamed via neutering.
@ The aggressive tendencies in the male cat are reduced significantly.
@ Several diseases in cats such as cancers of the ovaries, testicles and uterus are eliminated. Pyometra is also negated via castration and spraying.
@ Mammary tumors in female cats are reduced when their reproduction organs are removed.
@ Pregnancy related issues such as spotting are eliminated via neutering.
@ The overall lifespan of castrated cats tends to increase. Male cats tend to double their lifespan whereas the female cats too increase their lifespan by at least 50%.
@ You can control the population of cats by castrating the male cat or spraying the female. This way, overpopulation related issues are completely negated.
What are the Drawbacks of Neutering a Cat?
@ Infection as well as bleeding is common in the wake of a surgical procedure. In certain causes, neutering may lead to the death of the animal.
@ Female cats that have been sprayed are susceptible to hypothyroidism. They can also suffer from urinary tract infection. This condition is however not present in castrated male cats.
@ Prostate cancer in male cats is possible post the castration operation. Nonetheless, it is very unlikely that this should ever happen.
@ Cognitive impairment in castrated male cats is rather high.
@ This is an operation that involves cost and post-operative care. It is not everyone’s cup of tea to afford neutering.
FAQ on Does Neutering a Cat Stop Spraying?
Q-1: Why is it Important to Neuter or Spray Your Cat?
A-1: Millions of cats across the globe are killed each year in order to control their population. This killing is conducted under the euthanasia venture undertaken by governments of various countries. By neutering or spraying cats, you can keep them alive.
Q-2: Should I Have My Cat Sprayed after the 1st heat?
A-2: No, it is advisable to spray your cat before it is in heat. Ideally, you should not spray a cat after its litter. Do this procedure before the first heat to avoid physical complications to the animal.
Q-3: What is the Minimum Age to Spray a Female Cat?
A-3: The cat should be eight and a half weeks old and weigh 2.5 pounds before it can be sprayed upon. This should be taken as the minimal threshold.
Q-4: What is the Cost of Neutering or Spraying a Cat?
A-4: Usually, the procedure shall set you back by $100 or more. So, be prepared to shell out this amount. Avoid opting for low cost methods as they can cause complications to the animal.
Q-5: Do Neutered or Sprayed Cats Gain Weight after the Operation?
A-5: The cat shall automatically stop stepping out after being operated upon. So, try and reduce their diet and encourage them to exercise indoors in order to maintaining their weight.
Q-6: Does a Neutered Cat Stop Spraying in My House?
A-6: When your cat is sprayed or neutered, it loses its natural urge to mark its territory. Moreover, the lack of hormonal rage compels the cat to spray less. So yes, neutering shall stop your cat from spraying on your beloved rug or mattress.
Q-7: Is it Healthy to Have My Cat Neutered?
A-7: Yes, neutering or spraying shall help a cat be free from cancers and tumors. It also allows them to extend their current lifespan. As the reproductive organs are removed, the diseases linked to these organs are also eliminated.
Q-8: I Got my Cat Neutered Today. How Long does it Take for the Animal to Fully Recover?
A-8: The healing time that the cat takes depends entirely on the procedure. A keyhole surgery takes a week whereas an abdominal incision shall take two weeks for the cat to achieve complete recovery.
Q-9: What Should I Do after Neutering the Cat?
A-9: You need to take it home and find a secluded place for it to rest. It takes about 2 to 3 days before it starts to feel normal again. Thereafter, you can simply let it rest for another week before letting it out.
Q-10: Is there any Behavioral Change after a Cat is Neutered or Sprayed?
A-10: The cat shall begin to get less snappy. With the sex organs removed, it is evident that they shall be more docile and less angry. For a household pet, this is a wonderful sign (for the home owner).
Q-11: Does a Male Cat Suffer from Anxiety Post being Castrated?
A-11: No, there is no such evidence that states that depressive tendencies affect a neutered male cat.
Q-12: Does my Cat Know that he has been Neutered?
A-12: The male cat may not be aware that he is castrated. A female cat definitely has no clue about the procedure and it’s after effects on her body.
Q-13: It has been 2 weeks since my Male Cat was neutered. It is still Displaying Inappropriate Behavior. When will this all End?
A-13: Your cat has undergone a surgical procedure involving the removal of its reproductive organs. Give it 45 days to return back to normalcy.
Q-14: Should I leave a Neutered Cat on its Own after the Surgery?
A-14: It is recommended to keep it inside a large carry box. Ensure that you keep a lookout for the cat every 4 hours. After a day or two, you can inspect the cat again and allow it to step out of the cage. By the second day, the effect of anesthesia would have weaned.
Final Words
In conclusion, neutering your cat can significantly reduce, if not entirely eliminate, spraying behaviors, especially when done at the right age.
Research from the “Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association” shows that over 90% of cats stop spraying or significantly reduce this behavior after neutering.
This procedure helps by lowering testosterone levels, which in turn diminishes the cat’s urge to mark territory.
Neutering is not just about stopping the spray; it’s also about improving your cat’s overall health and well-being.
The “Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery” highlights that neutered cats are less prone to certain diseases and can live longer, healthier lives.
Moreover, this procedure can make your cat more sociable and less aggressive, fostering a more harmonious household.
It’s important to note that while neutering is highly effective, it might not be a complete fix if the spraying is triggered by stress or environmental factors.
Therefore, ensuring your cat feels secure and addressing any potential stressors in their environment is also crucial.
Creating a calm, enriched space with plenty of play and interaction can help complement the effects of neutering.
So, if you’re dealing with a spraying cat, neutering is a scientifically-backed, humane solution that offers multiple benefits.
It’s a proactive step towards a cleaner home and a happier, healthier feline friend.
>>> Click Here to Learn How to Stop Your Cat From Spraying Indoors <<<
References:
- https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/nutrition-research-reviews/article/neutering-in-dogs-and-cats-current-scientific-evidence-and-importance-of-adequate-nutritional-management/EE9069F2CF1060CB2D5D65460BA8E8E1
- https://www.avma.org/resources-tools/pet-owners/petcare/spaying-and-neutering