Find out more about three of the most vital aspects of cat care – neutering, vaccinations and microchipping.
Vaccinating your cat against infectious diseases, as well as microchipping and neutering your cat are some of the most important aspects of cat care. While most adult felines adopted from Cats Protection will have had all three, you'll need to make sure your cat has had all necessary treatments.
Neutering
Neutering your cat is a simple operation, with many health benefits. Essential for preventing unwanted kittens and reducing the spread of disease, it is advised that owners neuter their cat from four months of age or younger.
Important things about neutering:
- cats can be neutered from around four months old. They can be neutered at any age, so even if you have an adult cat who isn’t neutered there’s still time
- the operation is simple – your cat will usually be able to come home the same day
- there’s no benefit to letting your cat have one litter or one season before getting them neutered
- all adult cats from Cats Protection are neutered before being rehomed
The main benefits of neutering include:
- reduced chance of getting certain types of cancer
- less likely for your cat to roam very far from home
- no unplanned pregnancies and kittens needing a new home
- males are less likely to spray
You can read more about neutering in our full guide:
More about neutering
Microchipping
Microchipping is the safest and simplest way of permanently identifying your cat. The chip carries a unique ID number, allowing the cat to be traced back to you should they stray and be scanned. Keep your details updated when you move house to ensure a speedy and safe reunion.
Important things about microchipping:
- it is safe and quick to get your cat microchipped
- cats can be microchipped at any age
The benefits of microchipping include:
- you are more likely to be reunited with your cat if they go missing or get lost
- microchipping is permanent, unlike an ID tag on a collar which could easily get lost while your cat is out and about
- you can get a microchip cat flap which only your cat will be able to use (keeping other feline visitors out)
You can find out more about microchipping in our free guide:
More about microchipping
Vaccinations
Kittens and adult cats should be vaccinated to help them stay healthy. Your cat will need regular vaccinations throughout their life to help keep them protected against disease.
Important things about vaccinations:
- kittens should be vaccinated at around eight to nine weeks, with a second dose at 12 weeks
- your cat should also receive regular booster vaccinations throughout their life
- your cat’s vaccinations will need to be kept up to date if you ever plan to use a cattery for holiday care
- your cat’s insurance will usually require their vaccination boosters to be up to date
Vaccinations have lots of benefits, including:
- preventing your cat getting poorly with some common illnesses
- reducing the spread of certain illnesses
You can learn more about vaccinations in our guide:
More about vaccinations
