SPAYING & NEUTERING
At Ethereal Persians Cattery we recommend that every cat not intended or approved for breeding be altered between 6-8 months of age.
Are you aware of the pesky mating behaviors cats develop if not spayed or neutered?
Both male and female cats spray, howl and have territorial disputes. Males notoriously and indiscriminately spray – both their enclosure and us, given the chance . Our female cats also spray although generally only when in heat. They spray the inside of our home consistently throughout spring and summer. Both genders howl loudly when they’re horny, particularly during the late hours of the night. Territorial disputes are very common amongst moody and sexually frustrated individuals. The male cats cannot be within paws reach of each other and the female cats develop a clear hierchy using intimidation tactics. It is not uncommon for intact male cats to scruff and try to mate with females not in heat or kittens. For this reason, males have to be kept separate from females and kittens. Intact cats do not make good pets.
The Pros of Spaying & Neutering
Spaying and neutering felines before they reach sexual maturity has notable health benefits. For females, it eliminates the risk of developing pyometra – an infection of the ovaries triggered by continual hormone surges. This infection can catch new and seasoned breeders by surprise. If not caught early it can kill a queen within a week. For males, it eliminates they possibility of developing testicular cancer. Most importantly, both sexes become more passive, predictable and well mannered than they would if left intact. A loved family member is more likely to receive veterinary care when necessary and to remain in a furrever loving home.
The Cons of Spaying & Neutering
Hormones produced by the testes and ovaries regulate muscle formation, ligament formation, bone density and a host of other endocrine function. After removing the ovaries or testes, the adrenal gland compensates for the lack of hormones and begins to produce its own. Less hormones circulate the body, including digestive hormones used to regulate metabolism causing the digestive system to slow. With a slower metabolism, cats who are feed the same amount after spay/neuter will gain weight easier.
Make no Mistake
Despite the hormonal disruptions, the pros of desexing pets outweigh the cons. Altering prevents the breeding of cats with sub-optimal characteristics and controls population density. If you are not ready to devout your life and space to breeding please alter your pet.
Dr. Karen Becker, a proactive and integrative wellness veterinarian, discusses desexing pets.