Personality Changes in Cats After Spaying

Spaying a cat is the best way to prevent unwanted kittens and overpopulation, according to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA)'s website. The ASPCA states cats can be spayed as early as eight weeks old, and no later than six months old, to prevent a chance of pregnancy. A veterinarian will determine the best time to spay a cat if it is older than six months.

  1. What is Spaying?

    • According to the ASPCA, spaying a cat refers to the surgical procedure conducted on female cats to prevent pregnancy. This is done by removing the uterus, ovaries and fallopian tubes.

    Benefits

    • The ASPCA states that spayed cats are "less likely to develop breast cancer and will not be at risk for ovarian or uterine cancer." According to the ASPCA, millions of cats are sent to shelters or euthanized because of a lack of good homes. Spaying helps keep cat populations low.

    Personality Changes in Spayed Cats

    • According to Dr. Ivy Chupp, DVM, a cat's personality typically does not change after spaying. The ASPCA agrees, stating cats may be calmer and less likely to exhibit behaviors such as "yowling" to attract a mate.

    Physical Changes in Spayed Cats

    • Chupp states spayed cats may gain weight because their activity level decreases. "Owners may notice that the cat becomes lazier since the hormones have been taken away and the urge to roam has been removed," she said.

    What Owners Can Do if Changes Occur

    • "Owners need to ensure that they spend plenty of time encouraging play with their cats," Chupp said. "Cat toys are great for interactive play and cat trees help release their natural climbing instincts." Chupp also states that owners whose cats experience weight gain should decrease the amount of food the cat receives.