The Proper Age to Spay a Kitten

Spaying is a surgical operation that removes a female cat̵7;s uterus and ovaries for permanent pregnancy prevention. The procedure is performed under general anesthesia. The operation is quick and most cats are allowed to return home the same day, although some veterinarians will prefer to keep the animal overnight. Kittens can be spayed either before or after sexual maturity has been reached. Veterinarians have different opinions on when a kitten should be spayed, so be sure to consult yours to discuss options.

  1. Juvenile Spay

    • A kitten can be spayed as early as eight weeks of age. This is called a ̶0;juvenile spay.̶1; Juvenile spaying is common in animal shelters to help prevent overpopulation by ensuring that adopted cats are sterilized before leaving the shelter.

      Consider having your kitten spayed at eight weeks of age if you want pregnancy protection for your kitten as early as possible. The kitten must be in good health and weigh two pounds or more before spaying can be performed safely at this age.

      Consult with your veterinarian if you are unsure of your kitten̵7;s exact age, to ensure she is old enough and healthy enough for the procedure.

    Mature Spay

    • Spaying can also be performed between six and nine months of age, before your kitten has gone into her first heat cycle. Spaying before the first heat occurs has health benefits, such as a reduction in the chances of mammary tumor formation, uterine cancer and uterine infection. Kittens can reach sexual maturity between six and twelve months of age, when their first heat usually begins. Document your kitten̵7;s age and make arrangements to have her spayed before her first heat is expected to occur.

      Consult with your veterinarian to ensure that your kitten is healthy enough for the operation, and that the vet has time to address any health concerns before surgery.

      Consider having your kitten spayed even if she has had one or more heat cycles. Kittens who have reached sexual maturity should be spayed as soon as possible to prevent unwanted pregnancy. Spaying during a heat cycle may be possible if your veterinarian determines your kitten is healthy enough to handle the additional blood loss which may occur. Or you can wait and have your kitten spayed as soon as her heat cycle is complete.