It has been calculated that, in just seven years, one female cat and her offspring can produce as many as 420,000 kittens. This is a major problem and highlights the importance of desexing male and female cats at an early age to reduce the number of unwanted animals in our community.

In addition to preventing unwanted litters, desexing may result in a positive behavioural change in your cat. Desexing may also minimise the chance of your cat developing reproductive organ-related health issues that can threaten your cat’s life.

A desexed cat (male or female) are less likely to
• Wander or run away. Desexed cats generally have a reduced inclination to roam, which means they are less likely to roam off your property and reduces the risk of traffic accidents. It also increases the likelihood that your desexed cat will adapt better to a live indoors.
• Become involved in fights over territory or mating partners. This reduces the likelihood of injuries such as abscesses and infected wounds which may be fatal.
• Contract Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV). Also known as Feline AIDS, this can be contracted through fighting with other infected cats.
• Develop tumours such as uterine, ovarian and mammary (breast) cancer in females and possibly testicular cancer in males.
• Display anti-social behaviour towards people or other animals. This makes pet ownership less enjoyable and disrupts the human-pet bond.
• Spray or mark its territory, which is usually in the house.

A cat can have an average of 4–6 kittens per litter. Each kitten must be fed, wormed, and treated for fleas. It is also a legal requirement that each kitten be vaccinated and microchipped before they are sold or given away. These costs can add up, making desexing a much easier and less expensive option.

The appropriate age for desexing can vary depending on the breed and size of your cat. Generally, it is best done before puberty (approximately six months of age) although the operation can be done at a later age. Local Council regulations require cats to be desexed by four months of age unless a letter of exemption is supplied by the treating veterinarian.

If you would like more information about desexing, microchipping or registration of your cat phone and chat with our friendly team at Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital on 0247 362 027.

Please feel free to pop in anytime and meet the team at Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital. For more information check out our Facebook, website www.orchardhillsvet.com.au , Instagram @orchardhillsvethospitalgrooms or call 02 4736 2027.

Article Written + Submitted by: Camille Brandt from Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital
A: 377 Wentworth Rd, Orchard Hills P: 4736 2027