What is removed during a cat's spaying? - briefly
During a cat's spaying procedure, the ovaries and Fallopian tubes are surgically removed. This process prevents future pregnancies and reduces the risk of certain reproductive health issues in cats.
What is removed during a cat's spaying? - in detail
During a cat's spaying procedure, also known as an ovariohysterectomy, several reproductive organs are surgically removed to prevent future pregnancies and reduce the risk of health issues such as uterine infections and mammary tumors. The primary structures that are typically removed include:
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Ovaries: These are the female cat's reproductive glands, which produce eggs (ova) and secrete hormones that regulate the estrous cycle. By removing the ovaries, the cat is no longer able to reproduce and her heat cycles are eliminated, reducing behaviors such as vocalizing and attracting male cats.
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Fallopian Tubes: These tubes connect the ovaries to the uterus and allow for the transport of eggs from the ovaries to the uterus. Removing the fallopian tubes prevents any potential fertilization of eggs outside the uterus, which can cause dangerous ectopic pregnancies.
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Uterus: This is the muscular organ where a fertilized egg implants and develops into kittens. Removing the uterus eliminates the possibility of pregnancy and also reduces the risk of life-threatening conditions such as pyometra, an infection of the uterus that can be fatal if left untreated.
In some cases, a veterinarian may perform a procedure called an ovariectomy, which involves removing only the ovaries while leaving the fallopian tubes and uterus intact. However, this is less common due to the increased risk of pyometra in cats that still have their uterus. The complete removal of the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and uterus during a standard spaying procedure ensures comprehensive prevention of future pregnancies and associated health risks.