Should You Spay a Cat In Heat?

Unfortunately, it can be frustrating to live with a cat exhibiting the signs of estrus. Cats in heat tend to vocalize excessively. They may obsessively try to escape their homes. Some will even mark areas of the home with urine.

If you don't think you can deal with this behavior for about a week, then you may ask your vet about having her spayed as soon as possible. Though spaying a cat in heat is not ideal, it can be done. However, there are some disadvantages to this.

When a cat is in heat, the blood vessels that supply the reproductive organs and surrounding tissues become engorged with blood. The tissues may be more prone to tearing. This adds up to a surgery that is more complicated and lengthy than a routine spay. It will also be more expensive because of the extra time and supplies needed. Though the increased risk to the cat is minor, some vets prefer to avoid doing surgery on a cat in heat.

If you have scheduled your cat's spay surgery in advance and find that she has started her first heat right before the surgery, be sure to contact your vet for advice. It may be more practical for you, your cat, and the vet to postpone the surgery.

If you feel the risk of your cat escaping and mating is high, then it may be worth the additional cost, time, and risk to have the spay done while your cat is in still heat. Talk to your veterinarian for advice.

Timing the Spay Surgery

If your cat is in heat and you decided to wait to spay her, then it's important to plan ahead. Remember that cats will continue to go into heat until they mate.2 This means a new heat cycle could begin just days to weeks after the last one ends. Finding the right window can be tough. Your vet may not be able to accommodate a last-minute surgery. Ask your vet about the best time to schedule the spay. If you can is showing signs of heat a day or two before the scheduled surgery, be sure to let your vet know as soon as possible.