Cat neutering is important for many reasons: it prevents diseases, prevents escapes, marks territories, among other advantages... Many owners postpone cat neutering because of the price, but did you know that sterilization can be done for free in public agencies or non-governmental entities? Many veterinary universities also offer the service at a popular price.

Castration is an act of love with your pet and only brings benefits! Although simple, it is still a surgery and, therefore, requires specific care in the preoperative period. We have separated the most common questions about preparing for cat castration. See below!

What are the main precautions before cat neutering surgery?

Despite the almost unanimous indication and many already come castrated when they are adopted larger, the castration guidance should come from the veterinarian who accompanies your cat. After the indication, they ask for a series of exams to check the animal's health to make sure it is able to undergo surgery and anesthesia.

Complete blood count and electrocardiogram are the most common tests before surgery. After the check-up and the veterinarian's clearance, here's what to do preoperatively:

• Fasting for 6 hours for water;
• Fasting for 12 hours for food;
• Transport box to take the cat;
• Blanket to wrap the cat in after leaving surgery, anesthesia is often cold;
• Elizabethan collar to put on after castration.

It is normal for the cat to be very sleepy after surgery, have a lack of appetite and episodes of vomiting are also very common. Oh, do not force the kitten to eat and drink water, after the effect of anesthesia, everything will gradually return to normal.

What are the benefits of neutering cats?

• In females, it decreases the risk of infections and breast and uterine cancer;
• In males, it reduces the risk of prostate cancer;
• Cats do not feel the need to mark territory
• It can improve aggressive behavior;
• Decreases escapes for mating;
• There is no risk of unwanted offspring;
• Population control of street animals.

Is castration surgery for female cats more difficult than for male cats?

Castration is beneficial for both sexes, but female surgery is more invasive than in males. To get to the uterus and ovaries, the surgeon needs to cut the muscles of the kitten's belly. In males, castration is done by removing the testicles from the scrotum, so it is more superficial.

What is the best cat food for neutered cats?

After castration, it is common for cats to gain weight. With the removal of the ovaries and testicles, hormone production is affected. Without these hormones, the feline ends up being less active and, if the diet is not adapted, it can gain weight. The first reaction of the owners is to decrease the amount of food, but this can generate a lack of nutrients, in addition to making the animal hungry. The ideal is to reduce the amount of food.opt for a low-fat, high-fiber feed to increase satiety.