How to understand that a cat is neutered? - briefly
To determine if a cat has been neutered, look for a small incision or scar on the lower abdomen, typically about an inch long. This is where the testicles are removed during the procedure. Additionally, cats that have been neutered may exhibit changes in behavior such as reduced aggression and less frequent marking of territory.
How to understand that a cat is neutered? - in detail
To determine if a cat has been neutered, several methods can be employed. Neutering, also known as spaying for female cats and castration for male cats, involves surgical removal of the reproductive organs. Here are some key indicators:
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Scar: The most obvious sign is a small scar on the cat's abdomen, typically near the base of the tail. This is where the incision was made during the surgery. The scar usually appears as a thin line, about an inch long, and may be slightly raised or have a different texture compared to the surrounding skin.
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Behavioral Changes: Neutered cats often exhibit specific behavioral changes. For male cats, this includes a reduction in territorial marking (spraying urine) and aggressive behaviors such as fighting with other males. Female cats may show less vocalization during heat cycles and will not go into heat at all after the surgery.
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Physical Changes: Neutered male cats often have smaller, softer testicles that are not visible from outside the body. In female cats, the absence of heat cycles is a clear indicator of spaying. Heat cycles in unspayed females include increased vocalization, restlessness, and attracting male cats with pheromones.
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Veterinary Records: The most definitive way to know if a cat has been neutered is to check its veterinary records. These documents will provide detailed information about the surgery, including the date it was performed. If you do not have access to these records, consulting with a veterinarian can also confirm the status of the cat.
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Microchip Information: Some cats may have a microchip that contains information about their medical history, including whether they have been neutered. A veterinarian can scan the microchip to retrieve this data.