Call for Early Neutering of Cats
Cats Protection is urging cat owners to have their pets neutered earlier to prevent unwanted litters of kittens, and have set up a register of vets prepared to carry out the procedure early on in a cat's life.
The charity has conducted research which indicates that 94% of cat owners do not realise that cats can fall pregnant at as young as four months.
Cats Protection says it spent £5.6 million in 2010 neutering over 176000 owned, stray and feral cats across the UK. Ian MacFarlane, neutering manager with the charity, said: "We are working with the veterinary profession and the public to encourage cat neutering around four months of age, which is a significant move away from the traditional six months."
He added: "Ensuring cats are neutered earlier will prevent those surprise litters of kittens that most owners are unprepared for - and then have to hand over to animal welfare organisations, perpetuating the unwanted cat problem. Early neutering is proven to be safe and effective and avoids many of the potential complications for neutering later in life."
Cats Protection has established a register of veterinary practices that are prepared to neuter cats early. Practices that would like to be added to the register can sign up here.
Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.
