An operation on the beloved cuddly tiger often harbors many open questions and uncertainties for many cat owners. Therefore we would like to dedicate this article to the topic of surgical castration of cats.
The optimal time
Since our domestic cats become sexually mature at around six months of age, we recommend neutering at 5-6 months.
In the female, sexual maturity is characterized by the heat that recurs every 2-3 weeks. Here the queens behave very conspicuously, meow very loudly, roll on the carpet and are very demanding in their behavior. These phases mean an increased stress level for animals and humans. Thus, castration in cats has the main advantage of reducing stress for you and your animal. Besides, an uncastrated female can have between 2 and 5 kittens 2-3 times a year.
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Advantages and disadvantages of castration in cats
But also, the hangover has advantages from neutering. Uncastrated animals tend to have urine markings in their homes and are often less compatible with other cats. Uncastrated males have a much larger area in which they can be found. Since this often cannot be lived out properly due to the close contact with neighboring cats, territorial rivalries and fights arise. The cats are often seriously injured, and diseases can be transmitted as a result. In addition, non-neutered males can “smell” females in heat for several kilometers and thus undertake exhausting tours that sometimes last for days to get to the loved one, which significantly increases the risk of being hit by a car.
The disadvantages of castration in cats can be a tendency to overweight and a somewhat calmer nature. The castration in cats changes the metabolism, and the animals gain weight more easily. Controlled feeding management can counteract this. House cats also usually become calmer and more comfortable after neutering because the sex hormones are no longer available. They often prefer to cuddle on the sofa than go on long tours outdoors, which can also be advantageous.
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Preparation for the procedure
On the evening before the surgery, your cat can get something to eat until 10 p.m. It is important for anesthesia that the animals are sober, which means they should have fasted for 6-8 hours. If the four-legged friend had breakfast anyway, there is a risk that vomiting could occur during induction of the anesthesia, and the food could get into the windpipe. If your cat has still been given food, please inform us upon delivery so that we can adjust the time of operation and induction of anesthesia.
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The procedure of castration in cats
In the beginning, each animal is thoroughly rechecked by the vet. Only then do they get the anesthetic injection to fall asleep slowly and do not feel anything from the subsequent procedure. The operating area is then sheared, washed, and disinfected, creating a sterile work area.
In a hangover, the testicles are removed through a tiny incision in the scrotum. The wound is not sutured because the edges of the wound close on their own very quickly. This also allows the wound fluid to drain off and the wound to heal nicely.
The female procedure is a little more complex, as the ovaries have to be removed by incision. Complete removal of the entire uterus is usually not recommended unless the female is a little older, has had a boy, or has complications such as a pyometra (suppuration of the uterus).
After the operation, only a minimal incision can be seen in the abdomen/scrotum area. The veterinarian is conscientious to carry out the surgical procedure as minimally invasive to keep the postoperative pain as low as possible with every operation. This also means that every cat has a suitable pain reliever and anti-inflammatory drug beforehand.
During the entire operation, the values are permanently monitored and controlled by a pulse oximeter. Besides, the veterinarian is assisted by a veterinary practice assistant who checks the general condition and breathing.
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After the operation
After the operation, the patient is placed in a single hospitalization box with a warming mat and a warming lamp to get a good sleep. Heat regulation is significant during and after an operation, as the body loses body heat more quickly during anesthesia. Patients are constantly monitored throughout the wake-up phase.
Cats usually recover very quickly after surgery and are allowed to go home that same afternoon. The individual aftercare is always discussed in detail when you pick it up, and instructions for aftercare are provided. A follow-up check usually takes place after 10-14 days.
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