Canada's animal shelters are being pushed to their limits. Many shelters are either at capacity or close to capacity. Fortunately, there's something you can do to help prevent overcrowding in shelters: have your cat spayed or neutered. This routine procedure can prevent shelters from being overrun with unwanted cats - and keep your pets healthier. Once the operation is over, you just have to take care of your spayed or neutered cat. Fortunately, that's pretty easy. Here's how to do it.
Spaying vs. Neutering Your Pet
Although some people use the terms interchangeably, spaying your cat or neutering your cat is not the same operation. Spaying refers to an operation in which your female cat receives anesthesia. During the operation, the uterus and ovaries are removed.Neutering refers to castrating a male cat. Your male cat receives anesthesia. During the operation, the testes are removed. However, the outcome is the same. Spaying or neutering is an essential component of responsible animal ownership. Both types of surgeries are safe, routine procedures used to prevent pets from producing kittens. In addition, they also offer other benefits. Spaying or neutering your cat earlier in life can prevent health problems such as uterine infections and breast cancer. Some cat owners even report better behaviour after recovery from their surgery.
What to Expect Post-surgery
Caring for your cat post-surgery shouldn't be too difficult. Most cats recover from their surgery quickly. Since spaying and neutering are common procedures, most of the effects post-surgery are from the anesthetics. At first, they may appear drowsy or lethargic due to the sedative effects of the anesthetics. They may sleep more than usual, walk slower, jump less, or appear "zoned out." Their appetite is likely to be decreased, especially within 24 hours of their surgery. However, their appetite should soon return to normal.
Caring for Your Cat After Its Surgery
While your cat is recovering, keep them calm and indoors. For younger cats and kittens, this may be harder to do, but try to avoid excessive play. If you have multiple cats, keep them isolated from other cats for a few days. Your cat should wear an e-collar for 7-10 days after their surgery. This is to prevent them from licking their incision and causing an infection. Do not give human medication to your cat. Instead, give them the pain medication prescribed by the vet. As always, follow your veterinarian's instructions. While most spaying and neutering operations are routine, occasional complications can arise. Monitor your cat and take note of any bleeding, swelling, or other issues. If you have any questions or concerns, please consult us for additional help.
Get Your Cat Spayed or Neutered
Getting your cat spayed or neutered is a common procedure that can keep your cat healthy and prevent unwanted kittens. At Silverado Veterinary Hospital, we provide safe, successful spay and neuter services for pets throughout the South Calgary area. To set up an appointment to have your cat spayed or neutered, or for other questions about our services, contact Silverado Veterinary Hospital.