What will happen to the cat if it is not spayed and not mated with a tomcat? - briefly
If a female cat is not spayed and does not mate with a tomcat, she will experience repeated estrus cycles, leading to behavioral changes and potential health issues. Additionally, she will be at risk of developing uterine infections and mammary tumors.
What will happen to the cat if it is not spayed and not mated with a tomcat? - in detail
If a female cat, often referred to as a queen, is not spayed and does not mate with a tomcat, several physiological and behavioral changes can be expected. Spaying involves the surgical removal of the ovaries and uterus, which prevents the cat from going into heat and eliminates the possibility of pregnancy. Without this procedure, the cat will continue to experience estrous cycles, which are periods of sexual receptivity.
During each estrous cycle, the cat will exhibit behaviors indicative of being in heat. These behaviors include increased vocalization, restlessness, frequent urination, and rubbing against objects or people. These cycles can occur every few weeks and can last for several days. The persistent cycling can be stressful for both the cat and the owner, as the cat may become more demanding of attention and exhibit disruptive behaviors.
Physiologically, the cat's body will continue to produce hormones associated with the estrous cycle. Prolonged exposure to these hormones can lead to health issues. One significant concern is the increased risk of certain types of cancers, particularly mammary gland tumors. Early spaying, typically before the first heat cycle, significantly reduces this risk. Additionally, the cat remains at risk for pyometra, a serious uterine infection that can be life-threatening if left untreated.
Behaviorally, an unspayed cat may also exhibit more territorial and aggressive behaviors. This can include spraying urine to mark territory, which is more commonly associated with male cats but can occur in females as well. The cat may also become more prone to wandering and attempting to escape the home in search of a mate, increasing the risk of injuries from fights, accidents, or exposure to diseases.
Furthermore, an unspayed cat will continue to produce litters of kittens if she mates with a tomcat. This contributes to the overpopulation of cats, which is a significant problem in many areas. Overpopulation leads to increased numbers of stray and feral cats, which can strain animal control resources and shelters. It also contributes to the euthanasia of unwanted cats due to the limited availability of adoptive homes.
In summary, not spaying a female cat and not allowing her to mate with a tomcat results in a range of physiological and behavioral changes. These include persistent estrous cycles, increased risk of certain cancers and infections, territorial behaviors, and the potential for unwanted litters. Spaying is a recommended procedure that not only prevents these issues but also contributes to the overall health and well-being of the cat.