Cat Spay and Neuter Surgery at Animal Hospital of Roxbury.

Learning More about Cat Spays and Neuters at The Animal Hospital of Roxbury

At The Animal Hospital of Roxbury, we provide safe, professional spay and neuter surgeries for dogs and cats of all ages. These routine procedures offer lifelong health benefits, help reduce overpopulation, and support a happier, healthier life for your pet.

Why Spaying and Neutering Matters

Spaying (for females) and neutering (for males) are common surgical procedures that prevent your pet from reproducing. But the benefits go far beyond that:

Health Benefits:

  • Reduces the risk of certain cancers (mammary, uterine, testicular)

  • Prevents uterine infections (pyometra) in females

  • Lowers risk of prostate issues in males

  • May help with behavioral issues like roaming and marking
Community Impact:

  • Helps reduce the number of unwanted litters

  • Decreases the number of animals in shelters

  • Supports better overall animal welfare in the community

What to Expect Before & After Surgery

We know surgery can be stressful, so we focus on making the experience smooth and safe for both you and your pet.

Before Surgery:

  • We'll perform a physical exam and recommend pre-surgical bloodwork, chest x-ray, and ECG (age dependent)
  • You will receive a pre-surgical pain pack which includes Gabapentin and Cerenia (dogs only)
  • Your pet will need to fast the night before and morning of the procedure

  • Our team will walk you through the prep and answer any questions

During Surgery:

  • All procedures are performed under general anesthesia

  • We use monitoring equipment to help ensure your pet’s safety

  • Pain management is provided before, during, and after surgery

After Surgery:

  • Pets typically go home the same day

  • You’ll receive detailed aftercare instructions and medications

  • Our team is always available for follow-up questions or concerns

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a cat spay and a cat neuter?
Cat spaying is when you are fixing or altering a female cat. You are removing their ovaries and their uterus—so they can no longer have babies. They will no longer go through heat cycles, which means they don’t bleed anymore, and you won’t hear any of the yowling or other behaviors. It also greatly reduces the risk of mammary or breast cancer. We usually recommend spaying and neutering by five months old.

Neutering is for male cats. When we neuter a cat, we remove their testicles so they can no longer make babies. It decreases the risk of spraying, marking around the house, being territorial, and wandering. It also reduces the chance of testicular cancer.

At what age should I have my cat spayed or neutered?
Fixed by five months—spayed or neutered by five months.

What are the benefits of spaying my female cat?
Spaying reduces the risk of mammary or breast cancer, eliminates heat cycle behaviors, and helps prevent overpopulation.

What are the benefits of neutering my male cat?
Neutering reduces testosterone-related behaviors like marking and spraying, decreases aggression, wandering, and fighting, and prevents testicular cancer.

Are there any risks associated with spaying or neutering?
There are risks with anesthesia, which is required for the procedure. Cats receive multiple forms of pain control, including opioids, anti-inflammatories, and local anesthetics. All cats are monitored closely during surgery with blood pressure checks and ECGs. Post-surgery complications are uncommon, though cats may need an e-collar or recovery suit to prevent licking their incision.

What is the typical recovery time after spaying or neutering?
Females: up to two weeks, since the surgery is more invasive.
Males: usually shorter, but the incision should still be monitored for two weeks. Most cats are back to normal activity within a couple of days.

How should I prepare my cat for spaying or neutering surgery?

  • No food or water after 9:00 p.m. the night before

  • Drop off around 8:30–8:45 a.m.

  • Optional: get your cat used to a surgical recovery suit before surgery

What should I expect during my post-surgery recovery?
Keep your cat calm and avoid heavy play (jumping, climbing, roughhousing). Check the incision daily for redness, discharge, or swelling. Medications may be provided to help keep them calm.

Can my cat eat or drink before the surgery?
No, fasting is required after 9:00 p.m. the night before.

How do I care for my cat’s surgical site after spaying or neutering?
Check the incision at least once daily for redness, discharge, or swelling. Use an e-collar or surgical bodysuit to prevent licking.

Are there any special dietary needs for a cat recovering from surgery?
No special diet is required—just provide lots of love and attention.

What are common side effects of spaying or neutering in cats?
Cats may be sleepy or groggy for a day or two. Some cats may gain a little weight over time.

How can spaying or neutering affect my cat’s behavior?

  • Males: less marking, fighting, and wandering

  • Females: reduced hormone-related mood swings

  • Personality generally returns to normal quickly

Will spaying or neutering change my cat’s personality?
No. Cats may be groggy for a day or two, but they usually return to their normal selves.

What should I do if I notice complications after my cat’s surgery?
Contact your veterinarian immediately.

How can spaying or neutering prevent certain health issues in cats?
Spaying decreases the risk of mammary or breast cancer. Neutering prevents testicular cancer and can reduce risky male behaviors.

How does spaying or neutering impact a cat’s weight?
Some cats may gain a little weight as they get older, but this varies by individual.

Is it safe to spay or neuter a pregnant cat?
Yes. The procedure is slightly higher risk because of the increased blood supply to the uterus, but it is commonly done and cats typically do fine.

What should I discuss with my vet before scheduling spaying or neutering?

  • Timing of the procedure

  • Pain management options

  • Recovery expectations

  • Any special health considerations

How much does spaying or neutering a cat cost?
Costs vary by the cat’s weight and age. Your veterinarian can provide an estimate.

If you have questions, we would love to answer them for you. Please give us a call at the office at (973) 691-1771, or you can email us at [email protected]. Our staff would love to talk with you!

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