Pediatric Spay/Neuter (and cute kitten pictures!)

While the oft-recommended time to have your cat sterilized has been six-to-nine months of age, kittens also can be safely “fixed” as early as six WEEKS of age (or two pounds in weight). Shelters have done this for more than 20 years and countless studies have shown there are no adverse effects. In fact, the studies show that pediatric sterilization reduces the incidence of mammary cancer, asthma, gingivitis and lower urinary tract disorders.

The babies recover more quickly than older kitties, too. Safe anesthetics have been developed, so ask your local veterinarian about the procedure. We’re entering “kitten season” soon, and a female cat can become pregnant as early as four months of age…so please don’t wait.

I recently wrote an article for the Tufts publication Catnip (it will appear in the months ahead), and many professional breeders from around the world kindly sent to me pictures of their furry babies, and granted permission to share them here as well. Yes, indeed, many professional breeders have their pet-quality kittens sterilized before they go to new homes--what a deal! You can visit some of these folks’ websites to learn more about their catteries.

“Klarrrisa” is a Ragdoll, owned by Ken Staples (www.kasseldolls.com)

“Leo” is a Persian owned by Claudia Moore (www.geocities.com/connaught_persians)

Terri Reindl offered this picture of “Jack” a Sphynx kitty (www.nohairtheresphynx.com)

Daisy and Huggy are Burmese cats from Panthat Cattery bred by veterinarian Dr. Karen Thomas.

Here are some Oriental Shorthair cats courtesy of Laura Hanah (www.cats-rule.info)

Valerie J. Smith also breeds Oriental Shorthair cats http://www.winterfrost.net coming soon!)

Ragdolls rule for owner Mindy Ferreira (http://bellaPalazzo-Ragdollcats.com)

Susanna Downer breeds Birman cats (http://www.azuremist.net/)

Do you like the hairless beauties? Here’s a loving couple with their brood, courtesy of Jen Obal (www.LittleNudeDudes.com)

Marion Cooper provided this lovely Exotic picture (www.persianandexotics.com)

And Ellie Smith also breeds Exotics (http://geocities.com/milburypersians)