Castration of the cat

Castration of a tomcat is a common and relatively straightforward surgical procedure in which the testicles are removed under general anaesthesia. The operation is carried out as a day admission: your cat is brought in on an empty stomach in the morning and can usually go home again the same day.

To be safely anaesthetised, your tomcat needs to fast beforehand. That's why it's best to keep him indoors the night before the procedure. If that's difficult, he can also stay with us from the evening before.

A smooth recovery

Recovery after castration is usually very quick. In most cases, sutures or extensive aftercare aren't needed, and tomcats resume their normal activities quickly.

Benefits of castration

Castration offers several benefits for both your tomcat and those around him.

Less roaming and fighting

After castration, the urge to travel long distances in search of female cats usually decreases. This also reduces the risk of:

  • road accidents
  • fights with other cats
  • bite wounds and abscesses

Less spraying and odour nuisance

Castration significantly reduces:

  • urine spraying indoors
  • the typical strong tomcat odour
  • hormone-driven behaviour

Lower risk of contagious diseases

Because castrated tomcats generally fight and roam less, the risk of transmitting contagious conditions such as feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) is also reduced.

Also important for cat welfare

By having your tomcat castrated, you help reduce unwanted litters, the stray cat problem, and the strain on animal shelters.

Legally required

In Belgium, castration is mandatory before a cat changes ownership. At the same time, cats must also be identified with a microchip and registered in the central database.

When is the best time to have a tomcat castrated?

The procedure is preferably done before the tomcat becomes fertile, usually before the age of 7 months.

Watch your cat's weight after the procedure

After castration, your tomcat's energy needs may decrease. That's why it's important to pay attention to:

  • an appropriately adjusted diet
  • enough exercise
  • a healthy body weight

Good weight management also helps prevent problems such as bladder sludge and bladder stones.