The following are common myths about spaying and neutering.

 

Myth #1. Only females need to be spayed. 

This is not true. The reproduction process takes two, and if your male is not neutered, he can easily find a female mate, either a stray or a pet whose owners have not yet taken the responsibility of spaying her. You may not be directly affected if your male pet is allowed to breed, but your actions—or lack thereof—will contribute to the problem of pet overpopulation.

 

Myth #2. Neutering will affect a cat’s personality. 

The only hormone affected by the surgery is testosterone, which causes male animals to roam and protect or mark their territory. Males will be less aggressive and both males and females will be easier to manage when they are neutered. They will be more sociable and more likely to get along well with other animals and will be less likely to roam. 

 

Myth #3. Cats become fat, lazy, and unhealthy when neutered. 

Cats become fat, lazy, and unhealthy from overeating and lack of exercise and has nothing to do with neutering. In fact, neutering allows for better health and a longer life for your cat and reduces the risk of infection and cancer in the reproductive system.

 

Myth #4. A female cat will benefit from having a litter. 

Female cats do not actually benefit from having a litter before they are spayed. Having a litter can put a cat’s life at risk from complications that may arise from giving birth, and looking after a litter is very time-consuming and expensive. A female cat’s heat cycle can last seven to 10 days and can occur every few weeks. 

 

Myth #5. Children should be given the opportunity to learn about the birthing process and to take care of young animals. 

Your cat doesn’t need to have kittens for your children to learn about the miracle of creating life. Letting your pet produce offspring you have no intention of keeping is not a good lesson for your children—especially when so many unwanted animals end up in shelters. There are lots of books and videos available to teach your children about birth in a more responsible way. It is a better life lesson to teach your kids to be responsible pet owners and spay or neuter their pets.

 

Source: Canadian Federation of Humane Societies