FAQs About Cat Spaying

Many cats each year must be euthanized, because there simply aren't enough human owners to willingly provide care for them. By spaying your female cat, you can prevent litters of kittens from being brought into the world that will potentially have to be euthanized. Having your cat spayed is a simple and inexpensive procedure.

Q: Will my cat need to remain in the animal hospital overnight once it has been spayed?

A: No. Your cat will usually be closely monitored after it wakes from the anesthesia and be able to go home the same day.

Q: What is the earliest age I can safely have my cat spayed?

A: You can safely have your cat spayed at 8 weeks of age, as long as your cat is healthy and weighs 8 pounds or more.

Q: Is it true my cat will live longer if it is spayed?

A: In general, yes. Cats that are spayed are less likely to be diagnosed with breast cancer or uterine infections. Both of these are usually fatal and the chance of a feline surviving the diagnosis is around 10 percent.

Q: Is spaying your cat expensive?

A: It is can cost $100 or more at a veterinarian’s office, but don't worry if this number seems high to you. If you can't afford to pay that much out of pocket, there are many low-cost spay clinics that offer the service for around $45. Some organizations will even provide spay services free of charge if you provide proof that you receive public assistance though DSHS.

Q: Will my cat still go into heat once it has been spayed?

A: Once your cat has been spayed it will not go into heat.

Q: Will it be cheaper to license my cat once she has been spayed?

A: Yes. Animal licenses are cheaper for cats that have been spayed.

Q: Is spaying a cat a safe surgical procedure?

A: When performed by a trained veterinarian, spaying a cat is considered a safe and very common procedure.

Q: If my cat lives indoors should I still have her spayed?

A: Yes. You never know when you could leave the door open and your cat could make a quick escape, only to return to your home pregnant.