How Much Does It Cost to Neuter a Cat? (True Cost)

If you’ve been considering neutering or spaying your cat but don’t know how much it costs, you’ve come to the right place. Not only will neutering your cat save you money in the long run, but it’s in the best interest of your cat. Neutering (or spaying) your beloved cat will keep them closer to home by reducing wandering, and it can lower their risk of getting cancer.

But how much does it cost to neuter a cat? Let’s look at what fixing your cat can cost and all the benefits that come along with it.

How Much Does It Cost to Neuter a Cat?

The cost of neutering a male cat will cost between $50 and $300. Spaying a female cat is normally more expensive and can run up to $500. It will depend on whether you go to a traditional veterinary, mobile clinic, or shelter. The surgery normally includes a hospital stay and surgery.

Shelters

Shelters and rescues will neuter cats at an affordable price because it helps ease the burden of stray cats entering the shelter. For example, the Humane Society will fix a male cat for around $100. The only downside is the long wait times due to their high volume of inquiries and surgeries. The ASPCA will also provide low-cost options for getting a cat fixed.

Veterinarians

The price to neuter a cat by a veterinarian differs according to your location and competitive pricing in the area. Many conventional veterinarians will also perform a liver function test before the surgery, which could account for the added cost.

Mobile Clinics

Mobile clinics are an excellent way to fix your cat at a low cost while still receiving excellent service. Licensed veterinarians will travel to your home and perform the surgeries quickly and efficiently. The average cost to neuter a male cat using mobile clinic services can cost between $50-$80.

Additional Costs to Neuter a Cat

Of course, not everything is as simple as taking your fur friend to the vet and scheduling surgery. If your cat isn’t up to date with their shots, or they have an underlying health condition, there may be additional costs. Cats should get their vaccines every three years, so a vet may recommend updating your cat’s shot record before surgery.

What Is the Best Age to Neuter a Male Cat?

It is common to neuter your cat between the age of 4 to 5 months, although it is possible to neuter your cat as early as six weeks of age if the kitten weighs at least two pounds. Early neutering is beneficial for cats because it prevents behavior problems such as aggression or engaging in territorial disputes. Early neutering can also reduce the risk of reproductive-related health issues like uterine infections and cancer.

Additionally, neutering your cat around six weeks of age can create a healthier household. Unneutered cats can create a habit of urine spraying to mark their territory. Urine marking creates an unpleasant odor on furniture, carpets, walls, and other household items. Early neutering will reduce the possibility of urine marking, making the home more enjoyable and healthier for the family and cat.

Should You Neuter an Indoor Cat?

If the cat is the only pet in the home and is never outdoors, should you still neuter your cat? Yes! It can be tempting to skip the surgery to avoid the cost. However, there are still benefits to doing so, including the following.

• Male cats who are not neutered tend to roam, so your cat will bolt out the door if he gets the chance. This results in your cat mating with others or getting lost. It can also cost you money should your cat get injured on their adventures.
• Neutering your cat will help you financially. Cats who are not fixed have an increased risk of expensive health problems.
• An unneutered cat can create the habit of urine marking, which can be very frustrating for the owner.
• Neutering your cat can reduce aggression. This is one of the best ways to prevent fighting among other animals or displayed aggression toward humans in the home.

Benefits of Neutering a Cat

What is the process of neutering a male cat? It consists of removing the cat’s testicles, commonly called castration. The testicles can still produce testosterone, which means the cat can still show hormonal behaviors. This will ensure the cat can no longer reproduce.

There are many benefits to neutering a male cat. These include:

• Reduces urine spraying
• Reduces pet overpopulation
• Reduces aggressive behavior
• Reduces the risk of your cat roaming
• Prevents diseases such as testicular cancer
• Improves overall physical health, such as preventing hernias

What Happens if You Neuter a Cat Too Late?

The age you neuter your cat is crucial for their behavior and health. If you wait too long or never get your cat neutered, it will cause problems affecting the cat and the owner, including unplanned pregnancies, behavior problems, and an increased risk of health issues.

The Crux of it All

If your cat is displaying aggressive or roaming behavior, neutering your cat might be the next step in eliminating these behaviors. Neutering your cat doesn’t have to break the bank. It can cost somewhere between $50-$300 to do.

The photo featured at the top of this post is © r.classen/Shutterstock.com