Cat Behavior after Neutering

Neutering can change cat behavior in many ways. You may observe changes in both male and female cats. A neutered cat will be calmer and less active. The behavior issues that are related to the heat period and spraying should stop in cats after neutering.

Fewer Cat Fights

Typically, male cats that are not neutered get into fights due to the fact that the cat will be defending his territory. The fights may also be to get the attention of a female cat that is in heat. The instinct to fight is present in mature males, but if the cat is neutered, he will no longer be interested in mating and will not be territorial. A neutered cat may spend more time indoors and sleeping.

Quieter Behavior

The neutering will make both male and female cats quieter. Female cats tend to be very vocal, especially during the mating period. Neutered cats are calmer and will not display different behavior issues that are related to the mating period such as aggressiveness, scratching or chewing. Instead, the cat will focus his energy towards the owner. A neutered cat will be more affectionate and will be more likely to ask for more attention.

No Spraying

Cats that are not neutered, especially male cats, tend to spray to mark their territory and communicate with other female or male cats. Once neutered, the spraying behavior typically stops. Less than 10% of neutered cats continue to spray. Continued spraying could point to different health problems such as a urinary tract infection.

More Time Spent Grooming

Neutered cats spend more time grooming because they are no longer on the lookout for other cats to mate with. A neutered cat will allocate time daily for grooming. Typically, the cat will take a nap after grooming. If a cat is not neutered, he may neglect the grooming and may have a dirtier coat, tangled fur and even skin infections.

Modified Sleeping Patterns

A neutered cat will have modified sleeping patterns. He is likely to sleep more and be less active. This is due to the lack of need to mate, which typically drives the cat to be more active. This behavior can lead to a sedentary lifestyle and obesity. For this reason you will have to modify the cat’s diet or engage him in some entertaining activities, so as to prevent obesity.

No Major Personality Changes

After neutering, a cat will become more affectionate and less active, but his personality will remain the same. If the cat is independent, he will be the same after neutering. A happy cat will not become suddenly gloomy after neutering; he will remain the same happy cat, but perhaps a lazier cat.

Neutering is a simple procedure that involves removing the testicles or the ovaries (and uterus) of the cat. The procedure has a lot of health benefits and will also reduce the number of unwanted kittens.