Who is neutered, cats or cats? - briefly
The term "neutered" typically refers to male animals that have undergone surgical sterilization. Therefore, it is male cats that are referred to as neutered, while female cats are called spayed.
Who is neutered, cats or cats? - in detail
The procedure of neutering, also known as spaying in females and castration in males, is commonly performed on both male and female cats. This surgical process involves the removal of reproductive organs to prevent unwanted pregnancies, heat cycles, and certain health issues.
In female cats, the ovaries and often the uterus are removed during spaying. This procedure typically takes place when the cat is around six months old but can be done earlier or later depending on various factors such as overall health and the cat's living environment. Spaying offers numerous benefits including the prevention of unwanted litters, reduction in heat cycles that can be stressful for both the cat and owner, and decreased risk of certain reproductive diseases like pyometra and mammary cancer.
For male cats, neutering involves the removal of the testicles. This procedure is usually performed when the cat reaches a similar age range as females, around six months old. Neutering male cats helps to reduce or eliminate various behaviors associated with hormonal influences such as spraying urine to mark territory, roaming, and aggressive behavior towards other males. Additionally, neutering can lower the risk of certain diseases including testicular cancer and some prostate issues.
Both spaying and neutering are common surgical procedures performed by veterinarians under general anesthesia. Post-operative care typically includes monitoring for signs of infection or complications, as well as restricting activity for a short period to allow proper healing.
In summary, both male and female cats can be neutered through spaying and castration procedures respectively. These procedures offer numerous health and behavioral benefits, contributing to the overall well-being and longevity of cats.