Neutering a cat is a decision that many pet owners choose to make to help manage their cat’s health and behaviour. Perhaps you’re on the fence about doing so or simply want to understand more about this before going ahead. 85% of cats are neutered in the UK, which is about 9.3 million according to data from the Cats Protection, however, there are still many that are not, with 14% of owners wanting them to have kittens and 13% feeling their cat is too young for this procedure.
Whilst it is a common procedure, it can affect your cat’s general behaviour too, so below, you can find out more about this and what to expect after they have been neutered.
What is Neutering?
Neutering involves the surgical removal of a male cat’s testicles, also called castration, while spaying refers to the removal of a female cat’s reproductive organs. This procedure means your cat will be unable to reproduce and eliminates their production of hormones that drive many mating behaviours. The procedure is straightforward and safe, and generally quick to perform by your vet under general anaesthetic.
Neutering is typically recommended for cats before they reach sexual maturity to maximise the behavioural and health benefits. As per the Blue Cross, it is recommended this is done around four months old as it can help to prevent unwanted litters, reduce the number of stray and homeless cats, and help prevent diseases such as Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) in male cats, and cancer and womb infections in females.
Are There Immediate Behavioural Changes Post-Neutering?
You may notice a range of behavioural changes in your cat after the procedure. It’s common for cats to experience a temporary decrease in activity levels as they recover from anaesthesia, so during this period, your cat might be less playful, appear lethargic, and show less interest in their surroundings. This is a normal part of the healing process.
Appetite changes are also typical as some cats may eat less in the first few days post-operation. Their appetite should gradually return to normal as they begin to feel better. You will also see them have a generally calmer demeanour. Before the surgery, a male cat’s hormones would have driven behaviours such as seeking a mate, fighting with other cats if outside and territorial aggression. In females, this can display as loud meowing, pacing around or spraying to attract males. All cats are different, but you’ll notice they are less interested in doing those things.
You’ll want to monitor your cat for signs of discomfort or infection at the surgery site, which can affect behaviour. The wound should completely heal in around 10 days, so proper care and attention during this recovery phase can help ensure that your cat returns to its usual self more quickly, with positive changes becoming more apparent as they fully recover.
Long-Term Behavioural Effects
Neutering can have significant long-term effects on a cat’s behaviour, most of which are positive and contribute to a more harmonious living environment.
One of the most noticeable changes as mentioned is a reduction in aggressive behaviour. Male cats, in particular, often show less aggression towards other males and are less likely to engage in fights, which are typically related to territorial disputes and mating.
Another significant behavioural change is the reduction in roaming. Unneutered cats often wander far from home in search of mates, which exposes them to various risks such as traffic accidents and getting lost. Neutered cats are generally more content to stay closer to home, so you can enjoy less stress from worrying about where they could’ve gone.
Marking territory with urine is also greatly diminished after neutering. The strong odour and frequent marking inside the home can be challenging for any owner, so neutering usually results in a significant decrease in this behaviour. Overall, neutering should lead to a calmer, happier cat, which can enhance the bond between you.
Health Benefits Related to Behaviour
Neutering can significantly lower the risk of developing certain types of cancers, as per the PDSA, such as testicular cancer in males and reduces the likelihood of cancers of the ovaries and uterus in females. Your cat is also less likely to contract diseases spread through mating or fighting, such as FIV and Feline Leukaemia Virus (FeLV).
The decrease in stress associated with the urge to mate and defend territory not only contributes to a calmer personality for your cat but also reduces the risk of stress-related conditions such as over-grooming or increased vocalisation.
This overall improvement in health and well-being can significantly enhance your cat’s quality of life. It also means you can have a more relaxed and enjoyable relationship with your cat, which is something all owners want to have.
Common Myths vs. Reality
Unfortunately, there are a few myths surrounding neutering that may deter owners from going ahead with the surgery for their cat.
- One common myth is that neutering will make a cat lazy and prone to obesity. In reality, while a neutered cat might have slightly lower energy needs, obesity is more closely linked to overfeeding and lack of exercise rather than the neutering itself.
- Another misconception is that it will drastically change a cat’s personality. While neutering can reduce undesirable behaviours associated with mating instincts as mentioned above, it does not alter a cat’s fundamental personality. It helps them live a healthier, more balanced life.
- There is also the belief by some that their cat needs to have a litter first before being neutered. The reality is that this doesn’t provide any benefits to your cat. Having a litter can be stressful for a cat just like us humans, so they can be happier not having to do so.
Top Tips for Owners
- You’ll want to decide as early as possible to have your cat spayed or neutered. When they are a kitten, you already have lots to organise for them including their vaccinations and microchipping by the time they are 20 weeks old, so when putting together a checklist of essential items, remember to speak to your vet about neutering too. A female cat can fall pregnant from 4 months old, so the earlier you can arrange this for your cat the better.
- After the surgery, you’ll want to provide a quiet and comfortable recovery area away from busy household activity for your feline friend. Keep other household pets at a distance initially to allow your cat peace as it recovers.
- Monitor the incision site for signs of infection and ensure your cat doesn’t lick or bite at the stitches. They may need to wear a protective collar to avoid this.
- Gradually reintroduce activity as recommended by your vet, and because they will be moving less to begin with, manage your cat’s diet to prevent weight gain. Engage them in regular, gentle play to keep them active and healthy too.
Overall, you will notice some initial behavioural changes, but your cat’s personality won’t completely change from neutering. The benefits of having the procedure far outweigh any negatives you can think of, which is why the vast majority of owners seek to arrange this with their vet as soon as they can.
Of course, you should discuss any concerns you may have or further questions with your vet who will be able to advise further – after all, they are the experts and as we’ve mentioned in this article, they will be able to reinforce the reasons why your cat’s health will benefit from having the surgery, both in the short and long term.