Aquia-Garrisonville Animal Hospital

878 Garrisonville Road
P.O. Box 428
Stafford, Virginia  22554-3901
(540) 659-8140

Fax: (540) 659-0941

General Information
Altering is the surgical removal of the testicles.  When a cat is altered just before sexual maturity at 6-8 months of age, the cat's sexual instincts are reduced, and the cat becomes sterile.  Fighting and night prowling, common in intact male cats, are largely eliminated.  (However, altered cats may still want to go outdoors to hunt.)  The objectionable urine odor of the male cat is also reduced.

Surgical Procedure
Your pet will be given a preoperative physical examination to help ensure its safety during anesthesia and surgery.  The operation is performed under general anesthesia.  Your pet will be discharged from the hospital the same day of procedure.  Recovery is generally uneventful.

You will be provided further instructions on home care after the surgery by your doctor.  There is no need for suture removal.