Spaying in Cats

What is spaying or ovariohysterectomy?

Spaying is the common term used to describe the surgical procedure known as an ovariohysterectomy. In this procedure, the ovaries and uterus are removed completely to sterilize a female cat, or just the ovaries (ovariectomy), depending on your veterinarian’s technique.

Why should I have my cat spayed?

It is recommended that all non-breeding cats be spayed. Several health benefits are associated with spaying your cat. 

• Spaying eliminates the risk of ovarian and uterine cancers. 
• Spaying reduces the risk of breast cancer, which is the number one type of cancer diagnosed in intact (unspayed) female cats. Cats spayed before their first heat cycle have less than 0.5% chance of developing breast cancer.
• Spaying prevents a fatal uterine infection called pyometra.
• Spaying in cats with diabetes or epilepsy prevents hormonal changes that may interfere with medication.

Are there other benefits to spaying my cat?

The most obvious benefit is the prevention of unplanned pregnancies. There is no behavioral, medical, or scientific reason for letting your cat have a litter before she is spayed.

Removal of the ovaries will also stop her estrus cycles. Once a cat reaches puberty, usually at around seven months of age, she will have a heat or estrous cycle every two to three weeks for most of the year, unless she becomes pregnant. She will be “in heat” or receptive to mating for approximately one week in each cycle. During heat, she may display unsociable behavior such as loud and persistent crying and frequent rubbing and rolling on the floor. She may also urinate outside her litter box as a marking behavior. This behavior, coupled with her scent, will attract male cats. Spaying removes these behaviors. Removal of the ovaries will stop her estrus cycles.

When should I have my cat spayed?

There are many different factors to weigh when determining the optimal time to spay a kitten, including health, behavior, and your pet's environment. Traditionally, cats are spayed at six months of age. However, in many shelter situations, kittens as early as eight weeks of age may be spayed. Talk to your veterinarian to determine the best time to spay your pet.

What does spay surgery involve?

This major surgical procedure requires general anesthesia. You will need to fast your cat the night prior to surgery. The operation is performed through a relatively small incision usually made in the midline of the abdomen, just below the umbilicus. Both ovaries are removed, along with the entire uterus. The surgical incision will be closed with several layers of sutures. In many cases, skin sutures will be placed, and these will be removed after seven to ten days. Most cats return home within 12 to 24 hours of surgery. Your veterinarian will advise you how long to withhold food and water, and any other details specific to your cat.

Are there any dangers associated with the surgery?

In general, complications are rare during ovariohysterectomy surgery. However, spaying is considered a major operation and requires general anesthesia. With any anesthetic, the risk of serious complications, including death, is always possible. With modern anesthetics and monitoring equipment, the risk of complications is very low. See “Anesthesia for Cats” for further information.

Will spaying have any adverse effects on my cat?

In most cats, there are no adverse effects following an ovariohysterectomy. In certain cats, notably the Siamese breed, the hair that grows back over an operation site may be noticeably darker, believed to be due to a difference in the skin temperature. This darker patch usually grows out with the following molt as the hair is naturally replaced.

There are many myths and beliefs about spaying that are not supported by facts or research. Be sure to discuss any questions or concerns you may have with your veterinarian prior to surgery.

Does spaying cause my cat to get fat?

Spaying decreases your cat’s metabolism and may lead to a more sedentary lifestyle. This change will cause your cat to put on weight; however, if you monitor their body condition and make appropriate adjustments to nutrition and lifestyle – including regular exercise time – you can prevent this weight gain.