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Registrations for our Auckland Snip ‘n’ Chip are closed for 2020.

Cat owners have responded extremely well to our Snip ‘n’ Chip programme and we have seen over 1700 cats registered!

Keep an eye on our Facebook page and our website for more information on our 2021 Snip ‘n’ Chip programme.

We believe desexing is one of the key ways to improve animal welfare in New Zealand, and would like to thank the participating vets for their help.

What is desexing?

There are many different words to describe this procedure (desexing, spaying, neutering, altering, castration, sterilisation etc.), but they all refer to the surgical removal of the animals’ reproductive system to prevent breeding (having babies).

Should I desex my cat?

Yes! Both male and female cats can, and should, be desexed.

Desexing is an important component of population control and has many benefits for your animal. Unlike people, animals don’t experience the concepts of sexual identity or ego, and do not feel self-conscious after being desexed.

At what age should my cat be desexed?

SPCA supports pre-pubertal desexing - that is desexing before the animal reaches puberty and is able to reproduce. We recommend that all companion animals are desexed as early as possible in accordance with veterinary advice.

Should my female cat have a litter before being desexed?

No! Well-meaning people may tell you that your female cat should have a litter or experience a heat cycle/season before she is desexed. However, veterinary science tells us that the opposite is true! Female animals that have not been spayed are at higher risk of developing cancers of the uterus, ovaries and mammary glands, as well as suffering from complications of pregnancy and birthing.

For more information on desexing please see our advice article.