How do they neuter or spay a cat? - briefly
Neutering or spaying a cat involves a surgical procedure where the veterinarian removes the reproductive organs—testicles in males and ovaries (often along with the uterus) in females—under anesthesia to prevent reproduction.
How do they neuter or spay a cat? - in detail
Neutering or spaying a cat is a surgical procedure performed by a licensed veterinarian to prevent reproduction. For male cats, neutering, also known as castration, involves the removal of the testicles. The cat is placed under general anesthesia to ensure it feels no pain during the procedure. A small incision is made in the scrotum, and the testicles are carefully removed. The blood vessels and spermatic cords are tied off to prevent bleeding, and the incision is closed with sutures or surgical glue. The procedure is relatively quick, typically taking about 10 to 20 minutes. For female cats, spaying, or ovariohysterectomy, is more complex. The cat is also placed under general anesthesia. An incision is made in the abdomen, usually along the midline, to access the reproductive organs. The ovaries, fallopian tubes, and uterus are removed entirely to prevent future pregnancies. The blood vessels are ligated to control bleeding, and the abdominal wall and skin are sutured closed. This procedure takes longer, usually around 30 to 60 minutes. Both surgeries require sterile conditions to minimize the risk of infection. After the procedure, the cat is monitored closely as it wakes from anesthesia. Pain management is administered to ensure comfort during recovery. The cat may need to wear an Elizabethan collar to prevent licking or chewing at the incision site. Post-operative care includes keeping the cat indoors, limiting physical activity, and monitoring the incision for signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or discharge. Stitches, if non-dissolvable, are removed after about 10 to 14 days. Neutering and spaying not only prevent unwanted litters but also offer health benefits, such as reducing the risk of certain cancers and behavioral issues. It is a routine and safe procedure when performed by a qualified veterinarian.