What is done with cats when they are neutered? - briefly
Neutering involves surgically removing the cat's reproductive organs. For male cats, this procedure is called castration and involves the removal of both testicles. For female cats, it is known as spaying and entails the removal of the ovaries and uterus.
What is done with cats when they are neutered? - in detail
Neutering, also known as spaying in female cats and castration in male cats, is a common surgical procedure performed by veterinarians to prevent unwanted litters and reduce behavioral issues. The process involves removing the reproductive organs of the cat under general anesthesia. Here's a detailed breakdown of what happens when a cat is neutered:
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Preparation: Before the procedure, the cat is fasted overnight to ensure it has an empty stomach, which reduces the risk of complications during surgery. The veterinarian will also perform a physical examination and run pre-anesthetic blood tests to evaluate the cat's overall health and detect any potential issues that could affect the surgery.
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Anesthesia: Neutering is typically performed under general anesthesia, which renders the cat unconscious and pain-free during the procedure. The veterinarian will administer an intravenous injection of anesthetic drugs through a catheter placed in one of the cat's veins. Once the cat is fully anesthetized, it is intubated to maintain a clear airway throughout the surgery.
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Surgical Procedure:
- Spaying (female cats): The veterinarian makes two small incisions in the cat's abdomen, one on each side of the belly button. Using these incisions, the ovaries and uterus are carefully removed through a process called an ovariohysterectomy. The incisions are then closed using absorbable sutures.
- Castration (male cats): In male cats, the veterinarian makes a single small incision in the scrotum to access and remove both testicles. The incision is then closed with a few stitches or surgical glue.
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Post-operative Care: After the surgery, the cat is closely monitored as it wakes up from anesthesia. Once fully awake, it is provided with a comfortable and quiet recovery area. Pain medication and antibiotics may be administered to manage any discomfort or prevent infection. The cat will typically need to stay at the veterinary clinic overnight for observation.
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Recovery: Upon returning home, the cat should be kept indoors and rested to allow the surgical incisions to heal properly. An Elizabethan collar (e-collar) is often provided to prevent the cat from licking or biting at the stitches. The veterinarian will schedule a follow-up appointment to remove any non-absorbable sutures and ensure proper healing.
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Long-term Benefits: Neutering offers numerous long-term benefits for cats, including reduced risk of reproductive cancers, prevention of unwanted litters, and decreased likelihood of exhibiting undesirable behaviors such as spraying, roaming, and aggression. Additionally, neutered cats tend to have a healthier coat and are less likely to develop certain diseases.
In conclusion, neutering is a routine and safe surgical procedure that provides significant health and behavioral benefits for both male and female cats. It is essential to consult with a veterinarian to determine the best time for neutering based on the cat's age, breed, and overall health condition.