If you've recently adopted a kitten, one of the things that you need to consider is whether or not you'll have that kitten spayed or neutered. While most people understand that spaying and neutering are important for animals, many people don't know exactly what the process entails or when it should be done. Here are some of the things you need to know about having your new kitten neutered or spayed.
When Is The Right Time To Have The Kitten Spayed Or Neutered?
It is important to time the surgery at the right time. You can't have it done when the kitten is too young, but you also don't want to wait until after they reach six months old. Female cats can go into heat as early as a few months old, which puts them at risk of pregnancy when they're very young.
The sooner you have the kitten altered, the better. You can often find veterinarians that will do the surgery as early as eight or nine weeks of age. The younger the kitten is when the surgery is done, the easier time they'll have in recovery. Younger kittens will have a shorter recovery time and will suffer less pain after the surgery.
What Are The Surgery Basics?
Understanding what your cat will go through is important. Spaying and neutering are simple procedures so that you can be easily prepared for this. Your cat will go under general anesthesia. In most cases, the incision will be closed with sutures afterward. You'll have to make sure that the kitten doesn't eat after midnight before the surgery.
What Should You Do After The Surgery?
When you bring your kitten home, he or she will be very sleepy and groggy. Let your kitten sleep as much as they need to, and find them a quiet, safe spot to do just that. Don't let them play excessively, and keep the physical activity at a minimum for a week or so just in case. That gives the wound time to heal.
Keep an eye on your kitty for that time period. If you see any signs of infection, swelling, bleeding, or other types of discharge, that's a key sign that there's a problem. Call the vet right away in a case like that.
The more you understand about the spay and neuter procedure, the easier the entire process will be. Talk with your veterinarian today to schedule an appointment.
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