Feline Neutering
Neutering, also known as castration and orchidectomy, is performed on male cats to prevent them from being able to sire kittens. This common procedure is highly recommended for animals that will not be used for specific breeding purposes.
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Procedure
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According to the Mar Vista Animal Medical Center, feline neutering is one of the most simple procedures performed in veterinary medicine. The male cat is kept from food overnight so the procedure is performed on an empty stomach. When the cat is under anesthetic, the veterinarian cuts a small incision into the scrotum and the testicles are brought out. The cords of the testicles are tied or sutured together and the testicles are cut free. Because of the size of the incision, no sutures are needed to close it.
Function
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Neutering a male cat prevents it from being able to sire kittens, but it also eliminates behaviors associated with the reproductive urge. Neutered cats are typically less territorial and less aggressive with other male cats, and don't search for female cats. They are also less inclined to spray to mark their territory.
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Time Frame
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Kittens that are 8 weeks old can be safely neutered, and adult male cats can be neutered at any point. Though conventionally neutered at the age of 6 to 8 months, early neutering does not seem to take a toll on the kitten's health, according to the Mar Vista Animal Medical Center. Early neutering, especially by humane shelters and rescue groups, ensures that adopted kittens will not produce more kittens.
Treatment
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After a neutering operation, male cats can be discharged the same day. Typically there is no bleeding or swelling, and the incision will heal completely within two weeks. Don't bathe the cat during this time period to allow the incision time to heal.
Misconceptions
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Contrary to popular belief, kittens that are neutered early will not have health problems or be smaller than they should be. Kittens that are neutered early simply will not develop the more masculine appearance of intact cats, and they tend to be slimmer with a thinner face. A kitten that is neutered early also will not develop spines on its penis.
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References
- Photo Credit kitten image by Natalia Kosyanenko from Fotolia.com
