Lack of information or misinformation about neutering and spaying result in millions of kitten and cats being euthanized or abandoned each year. Some cat owners are fearful that the procedure might be painful or cruel or that it will result in a personality change. Separating myth from reality should reassure cat owners that neutering and spaying not only help solve the problem of unwanted cats but also contribute to their health and well-being.
Myth: Neutering/spaying changes a cat’s personality.
Reality: The cat’s genetic makeup and the attention and training it receives are the factors that shape its personality. Neutering is usually performed just as a cat is approaching puberty. The changes in a cat’s playfulness and sleeping habits that normally develop at puberty are sometimes attributed to this procedure.
Myth: Females have a sweeter, gentler personality if allowed to have one litter before being spayed.
Reality: No evidence from behavioral research or from clinical observations supports this belief. Some animals behaviorists suggest that this is “the placebo effect.” The owner expects that breeding will bring about a behavior change and this leads to the assumption that behavior has improved.
Myth: Neutered/spayed pets become obese.
Reality: Neutering/spaying are often associated with obesity because reduced activity and metabolic changes may result. This problem can generally be avoided by close monitoring of the cat’s diet (eliminating table scraps and, if necessary, reducing the amount of cat food offered). In addition to diet management, providing favorite toys and encouraging exercise through play periods should also help prevent obesity.
As in any surgery, neutering or spaying may have possible complications which you can discuss with your veterinarian. However, the benefits of neutering and spaying outweigh most complications.