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With the
increase of homeless and unwanted cats, spaying or neutering is
the only responsible course of action, unless of course you plan on breeding them.
Once your cat
gives birth to kittens, you're solely responsible for all of the kittens born. As cute
and cuddly as these
kittens may be, finding quality homes for all of them may be a real challenge.
The number of
cats that are taken to shelters or left abandoned is alarming simply because
their owners failed to plan ahead.
Professional
breeders typically don't neuter their show quality felines, because of the
guidelines in altering felines to participate in certain competitions. But due
to the increase in cats, some associations such as the Cat Fanciers Association
(CFA) has changed its show rules to allow neutered cats to compete. When they
know that certain will become pets, some breeders will neuter them. This helps
to assure breeders that
their cats will not become a part of the unwanted population of animals that
unfortunately end up
in shelters.
Neutering is a
requirement of animal shelters prior to adoption.
A refundable deposit is requested upon confirmation by some of them.
Benefits
exist for both you and your feline from neutering. These cats typically make excellent companions for children
and the elderly due to their gentle disposition.
Behavioral Changes
Because
hormonal factors and associated behavior of a sexually active cat are removed
from neutering,
your cat makes for a better pet. Ask any cat owner who has had a female cat in heat,
a frustrated tomcat, or litters of unwanted kittens. Trust me they won't
argue against the benefits of neutering pets. Pets are typically very affectionate and
more predictable once neutered.
When to Neuter
No time is exactly right for
spaying or neutering your pet. Even
as young as six weeks of age, experts
agree that the operation can be safely performed on kittens.
Most vets advise clients to plan surgery at 180 days, although
the operation can be done on older adopted cats and still be
successful. As in any medical procedure, consult with your
veterinarian to determine the best time and age to perform the
operation for your specific cat.
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@ 2008. CAT HEALTH SITE
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