The ideal age to sterilize (spay or neuter) a cat is generally around 5 to 6 months. This is the time when most cats reach sexual maturity, but before they start exhibiting behaviors associated with mating or reproduction.
Why 5-6 months?
Health benefits: Spaying or neutering before the cat goes into heat or becomes sexually active helps prevent certain health issues, such as uterine infections and mammary tumors in females, and testicular cancer in males.
Behavioral benefits: Early sterilization can reduce behaviors like yowling, spraying, and roaming, which are common in intact cats.
Prevents overpopulation: Spaying or neutering helps control the cat population by preventing unwanted litters.
Can you sterilize older cats?
Yes, adult cats can be sterilized at any age. However, older cats may have a slightly higher risk of complications due to age or existing health conditions. Always consult with your vet to determine the best time for your cat based on its health.
Important considerations:
Kittens as young as 8 weeks: Some vets may recommend sterilization as early as 8 weeks for kittens, particularly in rescue or shelter settings, to prevent unwanted litters. However, this depends on the kitten’s size and health.