Kittens can be "fixed" at as young as 8 weeks. Even cats that have had kittens can be spayed (though, a "mature cat" fee may apply: check with your vet). Though it can be expensive, it is well worth the investment; in fact, the cost of a spay or neuter should be included in your budget when you decide to adopt a cat, just like the cost of litter, food and toys.
So, here it is, people, my personal top 5 reasons why you should have your cat "de-kitten-ized"!
5. Your cat won't be a jerk anymore! Well, as much of a jerk (it is still a cat, after all). Spaying/Neutering will calm a cat's disposition, lessen aggressive tenancies, prevent spraying and territorial behaviours, and completely do away with the howling, meowling, butt-rubbing, annoying nonsense that comes along with the "heat" cycle. And, contrary to popular belief, it will NOT make your cat fat or lazy.
4. Your cat won't be tempted to run away to find other cats to mate with. This reduces the risk of your cat ending up in a shelter (kittens or no), and of your cat being injured or killed by other animals, traffic or other hazards. Cats that run off, or kittens that are born wild, can become ferral, meaning they fear humans enough to attack. And, runaways can become infected with and transmit a whole host of diseases, from Rabies to worms and fleas.
3. Spaying/Neutering reduces the risk of a number of feline cancers and infections that are usually fatal, if not very, very expensive to treat. Female cats that aren't "fixed" can develop cancers in the ovaries, uterus and mammary glands, as well as deadly and very painful uterine infections, which aren't usually caught until it's too late. Male cats can also develop testicular cancers.
2. Getting kitty "fixed" helps to reduce the risk of contracting the feline versions of AIDS/HIV and other sexually transmitted infections, as well as the cancers listed above.
1. There are WAY too many homeless kitties in shelters around the world right now. All Heart had to stop taking cats months ago because of the owner's allergies, but still she has more than a dozen to find homes for, and has had to turn so many away! Humane Societies and SPCAs are overrun, and it's not fair for the poor cats.
So, get it done. It's an overnight surgery, with only a short recovery time. The risk is minimal, and your pet will thank you for it!
The OSPCA has 2 Spay/Neuter Clinics (high volume clinics that ONLY do spay/neuters), one in Barrie and one in Newmarket. You can learn more about these clinics here. Toronto Animal Services also offer Spay/Neuter Services. For all other spay/neuter services local to you, contact your local SPCA, Humane Society or vet's office. Always ask about discounts, especially if you're a low-income person or on social assistance.
Relly says "THANK YOU!"
*I'm a cat person, which is why I"m targeting this to felines, but there are far too many unwanted dogs and puppies out there too. Bob Barker was right: Help control the animal population, and have ALL of your pets Spayed or Neutered.Sources:
Hubpages: 20 Reasons Why you should Spay Your Cat
MedicineNet.com: Top 10 reasons to spay or neuter your pet
MarvistaVet.com: At What Age can my Cat be Spayed?
OSPCA Spay/Neuter Clinic
City of Toronto
1 comment:
:D :D I like.
I think you mean 'altering your pet MAY calm its disposition.' Some animals are just naturally jerks, I think.
And many vet offices can set it up so it's not even an overnight surgery, especially for male animals.
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