Spay/Neuter FAQs

January 7, 2025

How can I spay or neuter outside cats?

People who care for outside pet cats that are not used to handling can borrow humane traps from People for Animals or from us if you click here. This type of trap will enclose the pet without harm, enabling it to be transported to the clinic. Make an appointment at People for Animals and follow all of their instructions. The cat should not be fed the night before surgery, but they should be given water. Once surgery is complete, food and water should be given. Keep the cat and observe them for 24 hours so they can recover quietly before release. Follow the clinic’s instructions.

What age can my cat be spayed or neutered?

It’s typically best to get your cat spayed or neutered between eight weeks and five months of age. Kittens must be at least 2 mos. old or 2 lbs. (male) to 2.5 lbs. (female). This targets the timeline before your cat reaches sexual maturity. The longer you wait, the more likely other issues can develop, and it’s not worth the wait.

How much will it cost?

• People for Animals in Hillsdale offers neuter/spay for ~$102* per cat, which includes rabies and distemper vaccines. 

• Alto Veterinary Services in Chester offers neuter/spay for ~$110-125* per cat, which includes rabies vaccine.

*Prices are subject to change.

What happens during surgery?

Spay and neuter surgically removes the internal reproductive organs from your pet. The operation is done painlessly while your pet is under anesthesia, and is performed by an experienced licensed veterinarian. After the operation, with a little special care and attention from you, your pet will soon resume its normal activities. Follow vet instructions before and after the procedure.

How long will it take my cat to recover?

Most cats that undergo the procedure will begin to feel better within 24–48 hours after the surgery. Complete recovery usually takes 10–14 days. This period is necessary for your cat to recover completely and without complications. During this time, the surgical incisions will heal, and your cat will no longer feel any discomfort. Keep your pet from heavy exercise and check the incision twice a day for 14 days, to make sure it is healing properly. 

Are there risks?

All surgery has its risks and complications. Fortunately, the vast majority of surgeries will go well and recovery will be uneventful. You can help reduce complications by following pre-anesthetic instructions and post-operative care instructions to help keep your cat healthy and happy. The most common complications are post-op due to cats being able to lick at their wounds or stitches.

Conclusion

So, you will probably agree that the benefits of spaying or neutering definitely outweigh the downfalls. But if you have any concerns over the safety or general questions about the procedure, feel free to ask your veterinarian about anything you might want to know. They can ease your mind and go over the procedure and expectations with you, explaining everything bit by bit.

Resources Consulted:  Why and when you should spay or neuter your pet, Spay/Neuter Your Pet, Cat Spay/Neuter: What to Expect and Why It's Important, 10 Benefits of Spaying and Neutering Your Cat (Based on Science), How Long Will a Cat Take to Recover From Spaying? Our Vet Answers, All You Need To Know About Neutering Or Spaying Your Cat, Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) Reduces Shelter Intake, Population Size