Full Recovery From a Neutering for Cats

Neutering of a cat involves the castration of the male, and the spaying of the female. Neutering is ideally done when cats are quite young before they become sexually mature, but it can be done at any age. Some owners defer neutering because they fear complications or a long recovery period.

  1. Castration Recovery

    • Castration--neutering of a male cat--is one of the first operations a vet learns; it's a simple procedure with very few complications. It involves only keyhole surgery in the scrotum, and cats rarely even notice anything has changed. They return to normal immediately after general anesthetic wears off, and a full recovery is quick. There are usually no stitches these days, the incision being so tiny.

    Spay Recovery

    • Castration in males is uncomplicated.

      Females have a larger operation to spay, than males. Ovaries and uterus are removed through an incision on the belly or flank. Recovery is usually fast and problem-free but caution should be taken to avoid over-exerting internal wound sites for a few days. Sutures are removed after ten days or may be soluble.

    Recovery Care

    • Recovery from neutering is usually problem-free.

      Care of a male cat means keeping him inside for a few days after the op to make sure the wound stays clean. If he's licking the wound site apply a head collar from your vet. Female cats should stay indoors for four or five days to reduce the chance of jumping and chasing, which can be too much exertion.

    Weight: A Caution

    • Neutered cats can become fat and sedentary. Encourage kitty to exercise frequently and make sure you keep an eye on its weight. Marked weight gain may mean reducing food portions. Your vet can supply a special "neutered cat" diet.

    Other Neutering Changes

    • Recovery from neutering--of both sexes--is so complete and uncomplicated that cats are happier afterwards. Hormones become settled, and a cat's urge to wander, fight and be territorial--including indulging in male spraying behaviors--all cease. Cats become more affectionate and owner-centred.