Does my cat really need neutering?

Question

So my cat is nearly 2 years old now. He doesn't like the outdoors so is exclusively an indoor cat (he is scared of even going on the balcony).

I had some minor spraying issues when I got two new roommates but he soon settled and he is generally a healthy and happy cat. He enjoys play fighting and the rest of the time he keeps himself to himself.

My vet seems very insistent he be neutered though, which I am a student and it is difficult for me to afford and given the fact he is an indoor cat, I really don't see the benefit.

Does he really need neutering?

J C · Answer

Yes, as sooner or later he's going to start to spray and not stop. And it's much easier to prevent than it is to try to correct it after it becomes a habit. You said he sprayed once - and it's only a matter of time before something else sets him off, and then it may not stop.   Student or not, you really do need to be concerned with being able to pay for vet bills.  What if he gets sick?  A urinary blockage (from eating an all dry diet)?  Manages to injure himself?  A neuter is not expensive - call your local shelters to see who has a low-cost neuter program.   Keep putting it off, and you will be very unhappy with him when he does what Nature is telling him to do - spray.

Nameless · Answer

No. Not really. You just need to make sure he stays inside. Be careful so he doesn't escape. 
I'm concerned by the fact that you cant afford a neuter though. Its not that expensive. If he gets sick the vet bill could be much higher than the price of a neuter.

Ocimom · Answer

Yes he does.  He will at some point spray in the apartment.  Tom cat urine is next to impossible to remove from carpet, flooring and furniture.  Also he is more at risk for testicular cancers at an early age.  Call your local shelters and ask for lower cost vets (maybe even free) neutering for you boy.  He will be much happier and you won't have to worry about him damaging the apartment with his spraying.

Jennisea · Answer

Neutering isn't mandatory. BUt it can also have health benefits for the animal. Fixing your cat can cause it to mellow out, live 30% longer and protect from certain cancers and diseases. You don't have to snip your cat, but it can also cut back on spraying and territory complications.

Paisley · Answer

I would neuter my cat based on the smell of tomcat urine alone. How can you stand it? There are lots of low-cost clinics that can do it very cheap. It is much healthier for the cat to be neutered.

Anonymous · Answer

once he gets older he shall run away if you dont get him neutered, ive seen it happen several times

Anonymous · Answer

Once he gets older he will run away if you dont get him neutered, ive seen it happen several times

? · Answer

Yes. . .If you really like your cat and want him to have the longest safest life.

Lizzie · Answer

No, he doesn't.

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Does my cat really need neutering?

9 Answers