/Why and when to fix your new kitten (Hint: Before 5 months!)

Why and when to fix your new kitten (Hint: Before 5 months!)

cats-kittens_00379052If your new kitten came from the shelter or a reputable rescue organization, then he or she will already have been sterilized, but there are still many ways that loving individuals come to adopt unfixed kittens – through Craigslist, acquaintances, a box in front of the grocery store, or a kitten that appears in your yard.  For these cats, which likely come from unplanned litters, it’s up to adopters to stop the cycle of births through spay/neuter and also to provide their cats with the best care possible.

Why Spay/Neuter?

To put it simply, spay/neuter saves lives. Animal shelters are overwhelmed by the number of abandoned and stray animals that come through their doors. Without enough adopters, these animals are euthanized. When responsible pet owners spay or neuter their animals, fewer animals are left to suffer and die in the shelter and on the street as strays.

Bad behaviors, not bad kitties. Ravaged by hormones and the natural urge to procreate and protect territory, unfixed cats will spray, fight and escape to find mates. Protect your house, sanity, and your new kitten by relieving these urges through sterilization. A fixed cat, is a happy cat.

When to Spay/Neuter?

Even well-meaning owners who plan to spay/neuter may not be aware of why its important to schedule the appointment early – before 5 months.

Babies having babies. Cats can become sexually mature as young as 4 months old and if you’re cat, male or female has access to the outdoors during this time, they could be contributing to accidental litters.

Fix early for health. Sterilizing your pet while young (before the first heat cycle) has been shown to reduce certain cancers – specifically mammary tumors.

Don’t forget to vaccinate. Early spay/neuter surgery can be scheduled along with kitten vaccinations to make sure your new friend is protected from preventable diseases.

FixNation is committed to cats, and to you!

If you’ve recently adopted a kitten, or a kitten has adopted you, contact FixNation to schedule a spay/neuter and vaccination appointment.  We make the process simple, with easy scheduling, pre- and post-surgery instructions, and no overnight stay. Your cat goes home with you the same afternoon. Ready to book an appointment? Click here.

 

2014-09-29T12:22:31-07:00 March 17th, 2014|Caregiver Tips, FixNation Services|