Pediatric Spay/Neuter (and cute kitten pictures!)

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| Print | By | March 25, 2008 11:56 AM

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.

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

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

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

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

oriental shorthairs laura hanah.jpg
Here are some Oriental Shorthair cats courtesy of Laura Hanah (www.cats-rule.info)

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

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

2 Birman Boys susanna downer.jpg
Susanna Downer breeds Birman cats (http://www.azuremist.net/)

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