After the excitement of bringing a new cat home, you should start to focus on their health and well-being. If your cat isn’t already spayed or neutered, having your veterinarian perform the procedure could be one of the most critical decisions you make as a pet owner. Here are just a few of the reasons why pet sterilization is so important.

Why You Should Spay or Neuter Cats

1. Improves Behavior

Male cats left intact will spray everywhere to mark their territory. They also tend to display more aggressive behaviors, which can often be avoided with neutering. Intact female cats go through heat cycles. These are stressful for both you and your cat, resulting in yowling and frequent urination. Her heats may also attract intact males from the neighborhood right to your backyard.

2. Prevents Unwanted Litters

Caring for a litter can be incredibly expensive. Whether you decide to keep them or find them a new home, you’ll need to take them to the veterinarian and provide them with all the resources they need to develop properly. When you spay or neuter your cat, however, you won’t have to worry about an unexpected litter.

3. Benefits Their Health

Taking the time to have your cat spayed or neutered by the veterinarian will prevent many future health problems. Spayed female cats, for example, won’t develop uterine cancer and have a decreased risk of breast cancer. After they’re neutered, male cats can’t get testicular cancer and are less likely to have prostate problems.

4. Keeps Your Cat Safe

Finding a mate tends to be the primary focus of intact cats. This often leads to escaped felines and late-night wandering, where your cat could be putting themselves in harm’s way. Males are especially known for getting into fights with other cats and potentially wild animals. Reduce the urge to roam by having your cat spayed or neutered.

5. Helps Stem Overpopulation

The Humane Society estimates that 6 to 7 million animals are put into shelters every year. Less than half of them are adopted, and the rest are euthanized. Stray cats can also be dangerous for the community, sometimes causing car accidents and starting fights with pets. When you have your veterinarian spay or neuter your cat, however, you’re ensuring you won’t contribute to the growing overpopulation of strays.

Promote the safety and health of your cat by having them spayed or neutered at All Feline Hospital. This Lancaster County, NE, cat vet is offering a special for Spay/Neuter Awareness Month. Throughout the month of February, your cat can get this crucial procedure done at a low cost. You can count on their staff to prioritize your pet’s health and happiness. Their veterinarians provide top-notch pet care using state-of-the-art technology, modern treatments, and up-to-date medical knowledge. Schedule an appointment today by calling (402) 467-2711. Learn more about their monthly specials online.