The optimal age to spay or neuter a cat is before it reaches 5 months of age. For females, spaying before the cat reaches 5 months of age would eliminate the behaviors displayed when in heat as well as unwanted pregnancies. For male cats, neutering before 5 months of age would substantially reduce or eliminate male territorial marking, fighting, and roaming. However, some veterinarians still recommend spaying or neutering at around 5-6 months of age. It is important to note that the surgery can be done at any point in a cats life, and even healthy cats who are in their teens can undergo the procedure without risk. It is best to talk to your veterinarian to determine the best time to have your cat spayed or neutered.
