Every cat parent knows that cats are part sass, part cuddle, and 100% rulers of the household. But with all that feline flair also comes great responsibility – especially when it comes to your kitten’s health and overall well-being.
That’s where spaying comes in. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about spaying your cat – from why and when to its cost and side effects. So, let’s get our paws dirty!
Spaying is the surgical procedure that removes a female cat’s ovaries and/or uterus, preventing her from going into heat or becoming pregnant. It involves going under anesthesia.
Neutering is the equivalent procedure for male cats. Both are important for population control and cats’ health overall.
But today, we’re all about the ladies.
Most vets recommend spaying your cat around five to six months old – basically before puberty hits.
There isn’t a problem if your cat has already had kittens. Mama cats can usually be spayed once their kittens are weaned, typically around 8 to 10 weeks after birth.
While cats can technically be spayed while in heat or even pregnant, the procedure is a lot more complicated and may come with added risks.
Still, it’s always best to speak with your cat’s vet and make sure the timing is right.
The price tag for spaying in the U.S. can range from $50 all the way to $500, depending on your location, vet, and cat’s health.
Still, many animal shelters and nonprofits offer low-cost or even free spay programs.
You should check out local humane societies or national organizations like the ASPCA for budget-friendly options.
Most pet insurance plans don’t cover routine procedures like spaying.
Nonetheless, some companies like Embrace Pet Insurance offer wellness add-ons that not only cover spaying, but they also include vaccinations, flea meds, and other purrks.
There’s nothing worse than getting an expensive bill you weren’t expecting. Pet owners often struggle with this, but pet insurance services like Embrace Pet Insurance exist to make their lives easier. This provider offers diverse services at reasonable prices, presenting its insurance plans in a transparent and easy-to-understand way.
Embrace Pet Insurance has something for everyone, covering illnesses, conditions, accidents, injuries, and even dental diseases. With prices starting at $13.32 per month for dogs and $11.60 for cats, it makes sure insurance remains accessible.
This is especially relevant when you think of your cat’s long-term health.
Make sure you keep an eye out for insurance providers that cover as much as possible for as little as possible, so that you’re able to go ahead with procedures like spaying without having to think twice.
Spaying is paramount for your cat’s health and your peace of mind.
It prevents unwanted litters, reduces the risk of certain cancers and reproductive disease, and stops dramatic heat-cycle behaviors (like yowling and restlessness).
Plus, it helps curb the stray cat population. It’s a win-win. However, like many surgeries, it does come with potential side effects.
Spaying is generally safe. Still, it can bring some temporary side effects in very rare situations:
While there’s some worry that spaying your cat can bring neurological issues, evidence that supports this theory is very thin and not scientifically accurate.
If your cat starts acting off, always call the vet, but don’t lose your whiskers over it.
Yes, you have alternatives for spaying, namely birth control.
But while they exist, they can cause serious side effects, including uterine infections and cancer, not to mention that they’re more expensive long-term, and a lot riskier than spaying.
Spaying is a one-and-done deal, while the pill requires constant vigilance.
Plus, cats aren’t known for taking medicine gracefully, so that could also be an impediment to birth control.
Overall, spaying proves to be a more effective, cheap, and safe solution for your cat.
However, it’s always important to look at it case-by-case, meaning that a vet’s opinion and expertise are of great value when choosing between spaying and birth control pills.
Book a pre-op exam with your vet.
Follow the fasting instructions. Usually, no food is allowed after midnight.
Set up a comfortable recovery spot away from other pets.
After the surgery, your cat will need recovery time.
It’s ideal to keep her in a quiet and confined area for 7 to 14 days.
During that time, you should avoid picking her up by the belly, supporting her chest and hind legs instead. You should also keep track of the incision daily for any signs of redness or swelling.
But remember, stick to your vet’s instructions! Recovery goes a lot smoother if you follow the rules.
After spaying, you can expect some behavior changes in your cat, but nothing to worry about! Post-spaying cats are often calmer, meow less, and get a little fluffier.
Since they no longer have heat cycles, their focus often shifts from trying to mate and flirting to napping, eating, and judging you silently from the windowsill.
Spaying your cat is one of the best decisions you can make for its health, happiness, and longevity (not to mention your sanity).
It’s a smart and loving choice that not only helps reduce overpopulation but also gives your furry friend a chill and comfortable life.
To save some money, make sure you have a good insurance plan like Embrace Pet Insurance, with handy add-ons that cover routine procedures like spaying.
Good luck on your journey, and give your kitty some extra chin scratches from us! If you have any more questions, drop them in the comments: let’s chat, cat-lovers to cat-lovers!
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