Neutering Your Cat: When, Why and What to Expect

When to Neuter a Cat

Kittens grow up fast. A female can come into season and become pregnant from around four months old, often before owners expect it, and a male can father kittens at a similar age. That's why advice has moved earlier than the old "six months".

In the UK, the Cat Group of welfare organizations and the British Veterinary Association recommend neutering pet cats from about four months (16 weeks). In the US, the Feline Veterinary Medical Association (formerly the American Association of Feline Practitioners) supports neutering cats not intended for breeding by five months. Your vet will recommend timing for your own kitten, and adult cats can be neutered at any age.

Why Neutering Matters

The biggest reason is kittens. There are far more cats than homes in many places, and a single unneutered female can have several litters a year. Neutering your own cat is the most direct thing you can do about it.

It also changes behavior. Unneutered males tend to roam widely, fight (spreading infections through bites), and mark territory with strong-smelling urine, indoors as well as out. Unneutered females come into season again and again, calling loudly and trying to get out. Neutered cats are usually calmer companions and stay closer to home. Your vet can also explain the health benefits of neutering for your cat.

Common Myths

• "She should have one litter first." There's no welfare benefit to a first litter, and every litter needs homes.
• "My cat lives indoors, so it doesn't matter." Indoor cats still call, spray and try to escape, and one open door is enough.
• "It will change his personality." Neutered cats keep their character; they just lose much of the urge to roam and fight.
• "Brother and sister kittens won't mate." They will, and young, and that's a common source of surprise litters.

Before and On the Day

Pain relief and any medicines after surgery: see your vet or a pet supply store with trained staff. Use only what your vet gives you; never give human painkillers to a cat.

Your vet will tell you how to prepare, usually including when to stop food the night before. Keep your kitten in the night before so it can't wander off, and bring it in a secure carrier.

Neutering is surgery under general anesthetic, so ask your vet any questions you have about the procedure, pain relief and aftercare. Many cats go home the same day.

Recovery at Home

Most cats are a little drowsy the first evening and back to themselves within a day or two. Keep your cat indoors and quiet, stop climbing and jumping where you can, and follow your vet's instructions on food, the wound and the check-up.

Look at the wound each day. Call your vet if it is red, swollen, weeping or open, if your cat licks it constantly, or if your cat isn't eating or seems unwell the day after surgery.

Watch the Waistline Afterward

Neutered cats need fewer calories, and many gain weight if their portions stay the same. Weigh your cat or check its body condition monthly for the first few months, and cut back a little if it's getting rounder. Our feeding guide shows how. Daily play helps too.