Early Neutering in Cats - Cats Protection Flashcards
Give 5 reasons why feline neutering is indicated
- Population control
- Controls risk in pregnancy, lactation
- Reduces incidence of disease
○ FIV
○ FeLV - Reduced risks of mammary tumours and pyometra
- Can remove unwanted behaviours
○ Spraying
When do cat become sexually active?
4 months old
What is ‘early neutering’?
- Before 4 months of age
- Before a cat becomes sexually active
- Must be >9 weeks (after vaccinations)
What are the benefits of early neutering?
- Earlier client bonding
- Simple, straightforward bonding
- Lower operation costs per cat
- Litters can be kept together
- Preferred option for many pedigree owners
What are the benefits of early neutering?
- Earlier client bonding
- Simple, straightforward bonding
- Lower operation costs per cat
- Litters can be kept together
- Preferred option for many pedigree owners
What is the ‘quad’?
Off-licence premedication for neutering kittens
Single IM injection of equal volumes of drugs
○ Medetomidine
○ Buprenorphine
○ Ketamine
○ Midazolam
Benefits of having midazolam in the quad
- Dose-saving effect
- Reduces volume of medetomidine required
- Amnesic effect?
What are the advantages of midline approach over flank?
- Better exposure
- Can pick up abnormalities more easily
- Can get to cervix more easily
What are the advantages of a flank approach?
- Faster
- Smaller wound
- Wound on side so easier to monitor
What are the muscle layers like in early neutering?
- Thinner and finer in kittens than adults
- Cut through slowly
Is clear fluid in the abdomen indicative of a problem?
No
Can be normal - not a concern
Just swab away
What is the risk of stump pyometras in cats?
Very low
No hormonal influence on uterus yet
Are cat’s testicles descended at birth?
- Yes
- If you can’t palpate - likely cryptorchid
What is autoligation?
- Separate blood vessels and vas deferens
- Tie around each other
How do we care for the cats post op?
- Keep warm
- Feed quickly
- Provide water
- Recover together
Monitor HR/RR
