Ovariohysterectomy (Spaying)

Ovariohysterectomy is the medical term for spaying of female cats. The procedure consists of surgical removal of the ovaries and uterus. If the ovaries are not removed, the bothersome heat periods still occur even though pregnancy is no longer possible. Spay prior to first heat is best (April/Spring).

Prevention of pregnancy and heat periods is the main reason for the surgery, but the procedure is also performed in treating severe uterine infections, ovarian and uterine cancer, and some skin disorders.

Castration:

Castration (neutering) is the surgical removal of the testicles. When a cat is castrated before sexual maturity (7 to 8 months of age), the sexual characteristics fail to develop and the cat is sterile (unable to impregnate a female). Sexually-driven behavior, such as roaming, fighting, and urine spraying, is either eliminated or markedly reduced. Neutered males may still enjoy hunting such things as mice, chipmunks, birds, and crickets. Neutering also reduces the strong urine odor associated with male cats.