The Ultimate Guide to Cat Spaying: Myths, Facts & Post-Surgery Care

Curated by a Cat for a Cat’s Big Life Decision: A Spaying Awareness Exhibition

As a cat, I take my well-being seriously, and I want to share my journey with my fellow felines and their humans. This is not just an exhibition—it’s a scientific and emotional exploration of spaying and neutering, created to help more cats live healthier and longer lives with their families.

Why Spaying Matters: A Veterinarian’s Perspective

I am the official human translator for this exhibition and a veterinarian specializing in pet health. A loving pet owner and a brave little cat invited me to share my professional insights into cat spaying and neutering.

Spaying is not just a routine procedure—it’s a crucial step in responsible pet care, preventing unwanted pregnancies and protecting cats from serious health risks. With years of experience, I am here to debunk myths, provide scientific insights, and guide cat owners through the process.

Pre-Surgery Health Check

Heart Health Screening: A Critical Step Before Anesthesia

Did you know that about 15% of cats are at risk of heart disease? Since spay surgery requires full anesthesia, pre-surgical heart screening is vital. A quick cardiac ultrasound or BNP test can help detect hidden heart issues, allowing veterinarians to create a safer surgery plan tailored to your cat’s health.

Pre-Surgery Preparation

My human says, “Your safety is the top priority!” And I agree—especially since she’s been stocking up on my favorite canned food as a reward!

Fasting Before Surgery: Why It’s Necessary

To reduce anesthesia risks, cats must fast for at least 8 hours before surgery. Food in the stomach can lead to vomiting during anesthesia, causing aspiration pneumonia or airway obstruction—serious complications that can be avoided with proper preparation.

Spay Surgery: What Happens?

No more yowling at night, sleepless hours, or shredded curtains—spaying brings peace to both cats and their humans!

The Procedure: What’s Removed?
✔️ Complete removal of the ovaries and uterus (Ovariohysterectomy)
✔️ Prevents future heat cycles and hormone-related behaviors
✔️ Not the same as tubal ligation—a partial procedure won’t stop heat cycles!

Post-Surgery Care

Pain Management: A Key to Faster Recovery

Post-surgical pain can cause licking, biting, and scratching at the wound, leading to infection or delayed healing. Proper pain management:
✔️ Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) help reduce pain and swelling.
✔️ Prevention is better than cure—early pain relief promotes a smoother recovery.

E-Collar: The "Sunflower Cat" Look

Your cat may not appreciate the new cone-of-shame fashion, but wearing an E-collar prevents wound irritation and infection. It’s a temporary inconvenience that ensures a safe healing process.

Debunking Common Spay & Neuter Myths

❌ Myth: Leaving One Ovary Helps a Cat Develop Normally

✅ Fact: Keeping an ovary won’t prevent pregnancy but will keep the cat in heat, causing distress and behavioral issues.

❌ Myth: Spaying Shortens a Cat’s Life

✅ Fact: Studies show that spayed cats live longer and have a lower risk of reproductive diseases like uterine infections, ovarian cysts, and mammary tumors.

❌ Myth: Spaying Is Risky and Has Severe Side Effects

✅ Fact: Spaying is a routine and safe procedure performed by experienced veterinarians. Pre-surgery health screenings further reduce risks.

❌ Myth: Early Spaying Affects Growth

✅ Fact: Early spaying may lead to a larger body size since reproductive hormones regulate bone closure. The best time to spay is around 5-6 months to prevent early pregnancy and reproductive diseases.

❌ Myth: Spayed Cats Always Gain Weight

✅ Fact: Post-surgery weight gain happens only with poor diet and lack of exercise. Feeding spay-specific cat food and maintaining active play sessions keep your cat fit and healthy.

🐾 A Healthier, Happier Life for Every Cat

Spaying isn’t just about preventing kittens—it’s about giving cats a longer, healthier, and more comfortable life. If you’re considering spaying your cat, consult a veterinarian to create a safe and tailored plan.

💬 Tag a cat parent who needs to know this! 🐾✨

🔗 Learn More: pethandmade.com/cat-spaying-guide-myths-facts-care

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