La sterilization of the cat is one of the most common procedures in veterinary medicine. But what really changes for the cat, besides the elimination of fertility?

When to do it

International guidelines:
  • Optimal age: 4-5 months, before puberty
  • Maximum age for full health benefits: before 12 months
Early sterilization (4-5 months) is now an international standard for cats intended for families. It does not cause growth problems.

The documented benefits

For the female:

  • Elimination of unwanted pregnancies
  • No heat (and no incessant nighttime meowing)
  • Drastic reduction of the risk of mammary tumors (over 90% if done before the first heat)
  • Elimination of the risk of pyometra (deadly uterine infection)
  • Elimination of ovarian and uterine tumors

For the male:

  • Elimination of the risk of testicular tumors
  • Drastic reduction of urine marking (90% stop after neutering)
  • Reduction of escapes to seek females in heat
  • Reduction of fights with other males (and injuries, abscesses, transmitted infectious diseases)
  • Reduction of the risk of FIV/FeLV (transmitted especially through fights)

The disadvantages

Increased risk of:

  • Overweight and obesity: the need decreases by 25-30% immediately after sterilization
  • Urinary stones (struvite): slightly increased risk, especially in males
  • Diabetes mellitus: related to obesity

What changes in behavior

Female:

  • No more heats (no more taboos on the subject)
  • Generally more stable character
  • Often more affectionate

Male:

  • Reduction of territorial aggression
  • Often more "home-loving"
  • Reduction of marking
  • Generally sweeter character
Important: neutering does not change the basic temperament. A sociable cat remains sociable; a shy one remains shy.

The procedure

Female (ovariectomy or ovariohysterectomy)

  • General anesthesia
  • 2-3 cm incision on the belly
  • Duration: 30-45 minutes
  • Absorbable stitches or to be removed in 10-14 days
  • Average cost: 100-200 € (variable by area and clinic)

Male (orchidectomy)

  • General anesthesia or deep sedation
  • Minimal incision on the scrotum (usually without stitches)
  • Duration: 10-15 minutes
  • Average cost: 50-100 €

Pre-operative exams

  • Blood profile always recommended
  • ECG for senior cats or those with familial heart disease
  • FIV/FeLV tests if not already done

The post-operative period

  • Rest 5-7 days
  • Elizabethan collar or specific body
  • Antibiotic + anti-inflammatory prescribed
  • Normal feeding after 4-6 hours
  • Reduce portions by 25% immediately (to prevent weight gain)
  • Check-up visit in 7-10 days

Weight management

The extra kg is the most common problem after sterilization. Strategies:
  1. Immediately reduce portions by 25-30%
  2. Specific "sterilised" food (fewer calories, more fiber)
  3. Increase daily play
  4. Weigh the cat every month, adjust if necessary

In conclusion

Cat sterilization is a safe procedure and, in the vast majority of cases, beneficial. It should still be considered a conscious choice: once done, it is permanent and requires the owner's attention to weight and physical activity to prevent obesity issues.