If you’ve recently welcomed a kitten into your home, you may be wondering what age do cats get spayed or neutered, or, as it’s often called, “fixed.” Spaying (for females) and neutering (for males) are routine surgeries that prevent reproduction, improve long-term health, and help reduce pet overpopulation.
At North Shore Animal League America, we recommend spaying or neutering as early as it’s safely possible, so your cat can enjoy the many benefits of the procedure right from the start.
Ideal Age to Spay or Neuter a Cat
Most veterinarians recommend spaying or neutering kittens at around five to six months old, before they reach sexual maturity. However, many shelters and rescue organizations, including ours, perform pediatric spay/neuter as early as eight to twelve weeks, provided the kitten is healthy and weighs at least two pounds.
Why earlier is often better:
- Prevents your cat’s first heat cycle
- Reduces the risk of certain reproductive cancers
- Helps avoid unwanted litters
- May reduce hormone-driven behaviors like spraying or roaming
Can Adult Cats Be Spayed or Neutered?
Yes! Cats can be spayed or neutered at almost any age, as long as they are healthy enough for anesthesia. While it’s best to have the procedure done before sexual maturity, adult cats still benefit greatly, including reduced risk of illness and prevention of unwanted pregnancies.
If your cat is older or has underlying health conditions, your veterinarian will run pre-surgical tests to ensure the procedure is safe.
How to Tell If It’s Time to Get Your Cat Fixed
If you’re unsure whether your cat is ready for the procedure, your veterinarian can provide guidance based on age, weight, and overall health. Signs your kitten is approaching sexual maturity include:
- Females going into heat (increased vocalization, restlessness, affectionate rubbing)
- Males spraying urine or becoming more territorial
- Increased interest in escaping outdoors
If you notice these behaviors and your cat hasn’t been fixed yet, schedule a vet appointment right away.
Benefits of Spaying and Neutering Cats
Spaying or neutering isn’t just about preventing kittens, it’s also about ensuring your cat’s long-term health and happiness. Benefits include:
- Eliminating heat cycles and hormone-driven behaviors
- Preventing uterine infections and reducing the risk of mammary cancer in females
- Reducing spraying and marking in males
- Lowering the risk of testicular cancer in males
- Reducing the urge to roam, which lowers the risk of injury or getting lost
Preparing Your Cat for Surgery
Before the procedure, your veterinarian will give you specific instructions, which may include fasting for several hours beforehand. After surgery:
- Keep your cat indoors and limit activity for 7–10 days
- Monitor the incision for swelling, redness, or discharge
- Prevent licking with an e-collar if needed
- Provide a quiet, comfortable recovery space
Helping Every Cat Live a Healthier Life
If you’ve been asking what age do cats get spayed or neutered or what age do cats get fixed, the answer is, as early as your veterinarian says it’s safe, ideally before the first heat cycle. The procedure is quick, safe, and one of the most important steps you can take for your cat’s well-being.
At North Shore Animal League America, we advocate for early spay/neuter as a critical part of responsible pet ownership. By choosing to fix your cat at the right age, you’re helping them live a healthier, happier life while preventing countless unwanted litters.