Neutering Manager Jane Clements explains the benefits of neutering cats, even if they stay indoors. 

Do you need advice on cat care? You have the opportunity to ask Cats Protection experts directly during our live Facebook Q&As. This week saw Neutering Manager Jane Clements taking questions – below lists just a few she answered.

My cat's an indoor cat and doesn't go out, do we still need to get her neutered?

I have a female cat, when we took her to the vets they predicted her age to be around six or seven years. I don’t know if she’s been neutered, the previous owners did not supply me with any vaccination paperwork. 

You may have already seen or will see some 'calling' behaviours which would indicate she is coming into season and therefore not been neutered. Your vet may also be able to see if there is evidence of a scar from her neutering operation.

Although she will be staying in, there are other health benefits for her, such as being less likely to contract diseases such as FIV and FeLV spread by bites and mating behaviour, and she’ll be unable to develop cancer of the ovaries or uterus. You can find out more of the benefits on our Neutering page.

Your vet will be able to give you advice with regards to finding out if she has already been neutered and potentially having the procedure done.

A neutering scar. Photo: CP Library

My male kitten is 10 weeks old. What are the benefits of neutering for him and at what age should I be booking him in?

He is the only animal in the house.

Kittens can be neutered from four months old and you can find your nearest vet on our Kitten Neutering Database. Neutering will protect him from some cancers later in life, prevent him roaming to find a mate and therefore potentially being hurt in a road traffic accident. Neutering also helps to prevent spraying and fighting behaviours.

My cat recently gave birth to kittens that are now around three weeks old. When can the mum be neutered?

It is possible for mum to be neutered now, however your vet will decide whether to neuter now or wait until the kittens are weaned. It is important that you keep her in at the moment, as she will be able to get pregnant again.

Please note that we are unable to give specific advice on your cat's health or any change in behaviour observed. For medical problems consult your vet who will have access to your cat’s medical history and will be able to examine them. You’ll find more information about cat care and behaviour here.

Would you like to ask one of our feline experts a question about your cat? Don’t miss the next live Facebook Q&A sessions: Behaviour expert Nicky Trevorrow will be offering advice on 2 July; vet Vanessa Howie will be answering questions on 16 July; while Neutering Manager Jane Clements will be back on 30 July. Every live Q&A is held on our national Facebook page from 2-3pm.