Having Your Male Cat Neutered
Millions of cats enter animal shelters across the United States every year.
Having your cat neutered is one of the absolute best ways to help reduce the number of unwanted cats across Turlock and surrounding areas.
Additionally, the benefits of neutering don't stop at controlling the cat population. Getting your kitten fixed can also help curb many unwanted cat behaviors and help decrease the risk of your male cat developing several serious health conditions.
What is neutering?
When a male cat is neutered, a veterinarian removes its testicles and, in some cases, the scrotum. This prevents the cat from fathering kittens.
Why We Recommend Neutering Male Cats
Though many cat owners (especially those who own indoor cats) may be reluctant to have their kitty fixed, there are some compelling reasons why your cat should be sterilized, regardless of whether they spend most of their time inside or outside. Neutering male cats:
- Reduces Risk of Disease - Having your male cat fixed eliminates the risk of testicular cancer and reduces the risk of prostate problems. Sterilized cats generally live longer, healthier, and happier lives.
- Curbs Undesirable Behaviors – Sterilized cats will be less likely to roam, wail, yowl, bite, act aggressively or mark or spray their territory. Intact males often escape their houses to look for females, which leaves them at risk of injury or fights with other males. Roaming can also expose your cat to dangerous disease, including feline immunodeficiency virus and feline leukemia.
- Fights Overpopulation – An estimated 60 to 100 million homeless cats roam the streets of communities across the United States. Getting your male cat neutered will help to control the cat overpopulation crisis.
- Can Be More Cost-Effective Than Treating Disease or Caring for Kittens – Treating cancers of the reproductive system, caring for newborn kittens, and paying for veterinary care for injuries sustained during cat fights can be costly. Neutering can help reduce these costs.
- Contributes to a Longer, Happier Life for Your Cat – It's believed that fixed cats live longer because they are less likely to wander from home, get hit by cars, and fight with other male cats.
What to Expect From Your Cat's Neutering Surgery
You may feel anxious leading up to and after your cat's surgery. However, understanding how to provide your cat with the care and attention they need will help your feline friend get back to their regular self as quickly as possible.
Your veterinarian will provide you with detailed instructions about how to care for your kitty and help them recover at home following surgery. Follow these instructions carefully, as they'll help you keep your cat healthy and content, and prevent complications from arising. Clarify any steps you are unsure about with your vet. If you arrive home and realize you've forgotten some element of your cat's aftercare, don't hesitate to call your vet to ask questions.
Helping Your Cat Recover From Effects of General Anesthetic
Our surgical team will anesthetize your cat with general anesthesia during this surgical procedure. Anesthesia will render your cat unconscious and prevent them from feeling any pain or discomfort during the operation. However, it may take some time for the effects of anesthesia to wear off after your kitty's surgery.
You may notice your male cat is temporarily sleepy or shaky on their feet due to side effects of general anesthesia following their neutering procedure. These after-effects are quite normal and should fade once your cat has been able to rest. It's also common for cats to experience a temporary lack of appetite as they recover from the anesthesia.
Recovery After Your Cat's Neutering Surgery
When a male cat is neutered, the testicles are typically removed to prevent the cat's body from producing sperm. This means they will no longer be able to father kittens.
Following surgery, give your furry friend some extra love and attention to help them recover well.
Incision Site
It is very important to prevent your cat from licking or chewing at their incision site. Your vet may recommend an e-collar or recovery suit (surgical onesie) to block your cat from being able to reach the area.
Male cats will have two incisions, one on either side of the scrotum.
It is important to check your cat's incision site daily. There should be no sign of redness or oozing, and swelling should be minimal. In some cases, males may appear as if they still have testicles. This swelling is normal and should gradually reduce throughout the recovery period.
If you see any signs of infection contact your vet for further instructions.
Sutures
Your cat will most likely have absorbable internal sutures, with the outer layer of skin held together with water-soluble surgical glue. Do not wash the area, or apply any ointments. Follow the post-op instructions provided by your vet.
If your cat has external sutures or staples, they will need to be removed at the end of the recovery period. It's a good idea to book your pet's follow-up appointment when you pick them up on surgery day.
Activity
Every cat is different and some are more energetic than others. Nonetheless, as challenging as it may be it's important to limit your cat's activity for about 14 days following their surgery.
Stretching and strenuous activity could cause the wound to open, disrupting the healing process and possibly leading to infection. So, that means no running, jumping or playing and your cat should be kept inside.
Baths are also not allowed during this 14-day recovery period.
Feeding
Your animal will be given general anesthesia as part of the surgical process. When your cat first comes out of surgery the after-effects of general anesthesia can leave them feeling a little nauseous and lethargic. Expect your male cat to gradually recover their normal appetite about 24 hours after surgery. Begin by offering smaller portions at first before moving to full-size meals.
If after 24 hours your cat is still lethargic or has symptoms such as vomiting or diarrhea, call your vet immediately.
Signs of Potential Complications
While neutering surgery is a standard and relatively safe procedure there are rare cases of complications occurring. For this reason, it's important to closely monitor your male cat's health and behavior after neutering and report any of these symptoms to your vet:
Some symptoms that you should monitor closely are:
- Lethargy more than 24 hours post-op
- Discharge or bleeding from the incision site
- Pale gums
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Trouble urinating
- Heavy breathing, panting
- Open incision site
- Cat sitting or laying in an unusual position
- Restless behavior
- Shaking or trembling
- Constant or repeated whining
- Relentless attempts to lick or chew incision site
- Hiding or other unusual behavior
How Long It Will Take For a Male Cat to Recover From Neutering Surgery
Every cat is a little different and your cat's recovery time will depend upon a number of factors including their age, size, and overall health. Generally, your cat will be okay to resume their normal activities after about two weeks of recovery time. Your vet may recommend a follow-up appointment before allowing your animal to resume strenuous activity.
Be sure to follow the post-op instructions provided by your vet and contact your veterinary clinic right away if your cat is taking longer than expected to recover from their surgery.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.