Few things are as cute as seeing how after the cat's pregnancy this excellent mother takes care of her endearing and playful puppies, however, we must be aware that beyond the idyllic nature of this scene, multiple problems can be caused if the litter has not been desired by the owners.
If we do not have a home or homes to take in the kittens of the litter, we must prevent them from reproducing at all costs, in this case it is our responsibility to avoid animal abandonment. In this AnimalWised article we talk about the contraceptive methods for cats
Contraceptive methods for female cats
The female has a seasonal polyestrous sexual cycle, this means that she has several heats a year, coinciding with the most favorable seasons for reproduction, also ovulates when mating has occurred, so fertilization is virtually certain.
Let's see below what methods we have to prevent pregnancy in cats:
- Surgical sterilization: An Ovariohysterectomy is usually performed, that is, the removal of the uterus and ovaries, thus preventing the menstrual cycle and the pregnancy. It is an irreversible method but if it is carried out early, it reduces the risk of breast cancer. Obviously, sterilized cats need specific care.
- Chemical sterilization: Chemical sterilization is reversible and is performed using drugs that act similarly to natural reproductive hormones, thus This inhibits the menstrual cycle and pregnancy. It can be applied by injection or oral tablets. However, this method is not recommended as it is ineffective and has serious side effects, such as pyometra (infection of the uterus) which can be fatal.
Contraceptive methods for male cats
The sterilization in the male cat occurs only through surgical means, we basically have two options:
- Vasectomy: It is the section of the vas deferens, the gestation of the cat is prevented but the production of testosterone remains intact and the cat can continue with its sexual life without problems, that is why this method is hardly used, since the sexual behavior of the cat is not prevented.
- Castration: It is a surgery that barely takes 10 minutes, simpler and cheaper than that of cats. It is about the removal of the testicles and with this intervention the wounds derived from fights with other cats and the wandering that occurs during heat are avoided, in the same way, it also reduces the smell of urine. Like the vasectomy, it is an irreversible method, in addition, the neutered cat needs special control over its diet.
You have doubts? Check with your vet
As you can see there are various contraceptive methods for cats but not all of them have to be suitable for your pet, for this reason we recommend that you first consult your veterinarian, as he will advise you on which method is most suitable for your cat and what advantages and problems it may entail.
