SPAY/ NEUTER

Question
Hi,
If I get a kitten, what would be the best age to get it spayed if it's a female or neutered if it's a male? I want to do what's healthier for the kitten and spaying or neutering early (before 10 weeks)doesn't seem like the healthiest choice.
Thanks

Answer
Well your thinking is correct. They are now seeing the (bad) effects of neutering too soon. Females should be spayed between 4-6 months of age, depending on the time of year. In the spring if they are 4 months old get them spayed or they will come into heat and get pregnant. Yes, as young as 4 months old. In the fall you can (usually) wait safely until they are 6 months old.

Males should not be neutered until they are between 6-8 months old. This will allow them to grow fully and get the skeletal growth that they need. Their muscles are not even fully developed until they 9 months to a year but you then run the risk of them spraying.

The only way you are going to be able to pick your time to spay or neuter is if you get a kitten from a friend. Shelter cats are always neutered now way too young, but before they are adopted.

It's really a shame and I while I understand their logic, it's not a healthy thing to do. Now they are finding these early neuterings are developing many diseases way too early, such as diabetes, Cushings, bone problems and even some cancers.

I hope that you can make that happen for yourself!