How old must a kitten be to get spayed?

Kittens can typically be spayed (ovariohysterectomy, or removal of the ovaries and uterus) as early as 6-8 weeks of age, as long as they weigh at least 2 pounds. In some cases, a veterinarian may recommend waiting until the kitten is slightly older (4-6 months of age) before spaying, especially if the kitten has a small body frame. Spaying before sexual maturity helps to prevent unwanted pregnancies, reduces the risk of certain types of cancers (such as mammary and uterine cancer), and can stop or prevent heat cycles, which are the time periods when female cats are receptive to mating and display behaviors such as yowling, restlessness, and urine marking.