TOP 10 WORST REASONS

NOT TO SPAY/NEUTER YOUR CAT

1.      It’s too expensive!  Compared to what?  Compare the cost of caring for a new litter kittens with the cost of this one-time surgery, and you’ll be dollars ahead in a matter of weeks or months.

2.      I never let my cat out of my sight.  Please.  No one is that diligent.  In-heat females and determined males will find a way to get together.  The screen door only has to stay ajar for a few seconds for your sexually active cat to escape and find a mate.

3.      We always find good homes for the kittens.  No one has that many friends or relatives willing to take your kittens.  Besides, giving a kitten away doesn’t always guarantee the animal a loving home.  Do you want the possibility of an owner’s abuse, abandonment, or neglect on your conscience?

4.      We thought they were too young to alter.  Kittens can be safely altered at eight weeks; don’t wait longer than six months.  Pet ownership means taking responsibility for the animal’s welfare - ignorance is no excuse.

5.      They’ll get fat and lazy.  Adult cats, like humans, can put on pounds.  Watching kitty’s calories and encouraging exercise will maintain your cat’s health and weight.  A healthy lifestyle (not having or making kittens) will ensure a slim and healthy pet.

6.      I want my children to witness the miracle of birth.  OK, but you don’t have to produce kittens for your children to have this experience.  Contact a local shelter or rescue group to find out if you can foster a pregnant cat.  You and yours can enjoy the birth process - the shelter has the responsibility for finding homes for the offspring.

7.      An animal needs one litter to calm it down.  Let us put this old wives’s tale to rest.  There’s no medical evidence to support it.

8.      I want a cat that looks like “Muffin” (or) I want to see what happens when I cross my Siamese with my neighbor’s Manx.  You’ll probably end up with a litter of kittens nobody wants.  Leave breeding to professional breeders who know what they’re doing.

9.      We have lots of room and love animals.  If you truly love cats, alter the ones you have to give them the healthiest possible life.  And if you want more, adopt them from a shelter or rescue group and give existing cats a chance for a better life.

10.  I was going to do it, but.....  Don’t wait.  Do it now!  Your cat will thank you.

Compiled by the Valley Cat Rescue, Department CM, Box 242, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18703-0242, (717) 824-4172.