Should I neuter my cat?
Key takeaways
Cat neutering, also known as spaying for females and castration for males, is a routine surgery to prevent breeding
Castration of male cats involves the removal of testicles through a small incision, which usually heals in 5-7 days. Spaying of female cats is the removal of the ovaries and uterus through the abdomen, which typically heals in 7-10 days
The recommended age for cat neutering is after primary vaccinations at around 4-5 months old, but can be done later
It costs around £120 for females in the UK, varies by gender, location, and practice
What is cat neutering?
Neutering is a surgical procedure that prevents cats from reproducing.
Male cats are neutered through a procedure called castration, where the testicles are removed
Female cats are spayed, meaning the ovaries and usually the uterus are removed
Both procedures are commonly carried out under general anaesthetic by a vet.
Should I get my cat spayed or neutered?
In most cases, yes. Vets and animal welfare organisations generally recommend spaying or neutering cats unless there’s a medical reason not to.
According to our recent data, 71%
^ of our pet insurance customers have chosen to neuter or spay their cat.
What are the benefits of neutering or spaying my cat?
There are several reasons why owners choose to neuter their cats, including health, behavioural, and welfare benefits.
Health benefits of neutering or spaying a cat
Spaying female cats can help reduce the risk of:
womb infections (pyometra)
ovarian cancer
mammary tumours
Neutering male cats can reduce the risk of:
testicular cancer
some prostate-related conditions
Behavioural benefits of neutering or spaying a cat
Neutering may reduce hormone-driven behaviours such as:
spraying indoors
roaming
fighting
loud calling or yowling
However, neutering will not completely change your cat’s personality or behaviour, and some habits may continue after surgery.
What are the risks associated with neutering a cat?
Neutering is considered a safe and routine operation, but as with any surgery, there are some risks.
Possible complications include:
reactions to anaesthetic
bleeding
infection
swelling around the surgical site
Some cats may also gain weight after neutering because hormone changes can reduce activity levels and metabolism. This can usually be managed through diet and exercise.
Your vet can explain the potential risks and benefits for your individual cat.
When should I neuter my cat?
Most vets recommend neutering cats from around four months old, before they reach sexual maturity. The ideal timing can vary depending on factors such as your cat's health, breed, and lifestyle.
Your kitten does not necessarily need to wait until after vaccinations, although your vet may recommend spacing appointments apart.
How long does it take for a cat to recover from being neutered?
Most cats recover quickly after neutering. Male cats often recover within 5–7 days, while female cats may take 7–10 days because spaying is a more invasive procedure.
During recovery, your vet may recommend:
keeping your cat indoors
limiting jumping and rough play
checking the wound daily
preventing licking if necessary
ensuring easy access to food, water, and litter trays
Contact your vet if you notice:
swelling
discharge
bleeding
vomiting
loss of appetite
unusual tiredness
How much does it cost to neuter a cat?
The cost of neutering your cat will depend on a few factors. The average cost of neutering your female cat in the UK is £120.
However, this price will depend on factors such as your location, veterinary practice, cat's sex, and whether additional treatments or medications are included.
Typical UK price ranges are:
Procedure | Typical cost range |
|---|---|
Male cat castration | £80–£150 |
Female cat spaying | £100–£250 |
Female cats are usually more expensive to spay because the procedure is more complex.
Can I get financial help to neuter my cat?
Cats Protection can help you afford neutering and microchipping your cat. They offer a low-cost neutering and microchipping program for just £10 if you meet one of these criteria:
You receive certain means-tested benefits
Your household income is less than £25,000
You are a full-time student living away from home
Visit the Cats Protection website to learn more about these programs and find a participating vet clinic near you.
How should I care for my cat post-neutering?
It is important that you make sure your cat is calm and warm and ensure there is a light meal available nearby. Don’t be concerned it they don’t eat it, it is normal for your cat to feel a little off, the first couple of days.
It is very important to ensure they have easy access to water constantly as well as their litter tray. Rest is vital after the procedure.
What post-neutering symptoms are a cause for concern?
If your cat is not eating or drinking 24 hours after the surgery, you need to call your vet. Other concerns to look out for are any vomiting or diarrhoea or any swelling and discharge around the wound area.
Does pet insurance cover neutering?
No, pet insurance does not usually cover neutering or spaying because it is classed as a routine procedure rather than treatment for an illness or injury.
Most standard pet insurance policies also exclude the cost of vaccinations, flea and worm treatments, routine dental care, and grooming and claw clipping.
However, some insurers may contribute towards the cost through:
wellness add-ons
preventative healthcare packages
multi-benefit policies
Complications arising from the surgery may also be covered, depending on your policy wording.
Some insurers may also view neutered pets as lower risk because they are less likely to roam, fight, or develop certain reproductive health conditions.
Always check your policy documents carefully before arranging treatment.
Does neutering or spaying my cat make pet insurance cheaper?
Neutering your cat is one factor that will help reduce the price of your cat insurance premiums. Other factors, such as keeping up with your pet’s vaccinations and microchipping your pet, can also help lower your premiums.
Frequently asked questions
Why is neutering important for my cat's welfare?
Cats can become pregnant from around four months old, and unplanned litters contribute to increasing pressure on rescue centres and animal charities across the UK.
Neutering helps reduce:
unwanted litters
stray cat populations
overcrowding in rescue centres
Many animal welfare organisations recommend neutering as part of responsible pet ownership.
Should indoor cats be neutered?
Yes. Even indoor cats are usually recommended for neutering.
Indoor cats can still:
spray indoors
display hormone-driven behaviours
develop reproductive health problems
accidentally escape and become pregnant or impregnate another cat
Neutering can help reduce these risks while improving long-term welfare.
Will neutering stop spraying?
Neutering may reduce spraying behaviour, especially if carried out before the habit becomes established.
However, spraying can also be caused by:
stress
territorial behaviour
illness
environmental changes
Some cats may continue spraying after neutering.
Will neutering make my cat gain weight?
Some cats gain weight after neutering because they may become less active and require fewer calories.
This can usually be managed through:
portion control
a balanced diet
regular play and exercise
routine weight checks
Your vet can advise on the right nutrition for your cat after surgery.
Is my cat too old to be neutered or spayed?
Older cats can still be neutered, although your vet may recommend additional health checks before surgery.
The decision will depend on:
overall health
weight
medical history
anaesthetic risk
Your vet can help determine whether neutering is suitable for an older cat.
Should female cats have a litter before being spayed?
No. There is no medical requirement for female cats to have a litter before being spayed.
In fact, early spaying may help reduce the risk of some reproductive diseases and unwanted pregnancies.
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Collette Shackleton
Content Writer
Collette Shackleton is a highly skilled Content Writer who has over nine years’ experience creating helpful and engaging personal finance content for consumers. Collette shares her experience as a...
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Beth Leslie
Senior Insurance Content Editor
Beth is an experienced writer and editor who specialises in financial and economic content. She is currently the Senior Insurance Content Editor for MoneySuperMarket. Beth is passionate about making...
