Another question that came in from our reader 
“Hi, I have a snoweshoe male 7months old got neutered 2 weeks ago, he has been limping (hind leg) ocassionaly. I asked the vet when I followed up and he said it is growing pains? I was thinking maybe he was injured during surgery or could it be something more serious. I am really concerned info greatly appreciated.
Thank You
Lily”
Neutering is the removal of an animal’s reproductive organ, either a large part or all of it. Neutering is often reference to males, while spraying is usually sprayed for females. Both terms often referred by vets as ‘fixing.’
Neutering is the most basic and common sterilizing method in animals, and most animal shelters and rescue groups urge pet owners to have their pets neutered or sprayed to avoid unwanted pregnancies, which is the primary reason for overpopulation. Traditionally, both male and female cats are neutered at six (6) months old. The main purpose of neutering is to help cats for better socialization, health and control their population.
The most common concern among cat owners in neutering and spraying is the use of anesthesia to their beloved pets. Though, veterinary anesthesia today is safe, there are also some risks and side-effects, especially when the procedure cause some complications.
Understanding Anesthesia
There are two categories of anesthesia: the local anesthesia (numbs the nerves and relaxes the muscles of a specific body part) and the general anesthesia (where cats should induce unconsciousness to relax the entire body and hinder all pain sensations.
Recovery from Anesthesia
Most cats with healthy body who receive general anesthesia, will start to wake-up shortly after the administration of the drug, usually no longer than 24 hours to return to their normal behavior.
Advantage of Neutering
Neutered cats in cat shows, both male and female, are categorized as “alters.” Though a bit unfair, there is more competition in this class.
So why are neutered and sprayed cats in a different category? Neutering and spraying affect the cat’s appearance and behavior. As a matter of fact, one reason for the process is to alter the behavior of these animals, making them a better fit in the lifestyle of their masters.
Neutered cats no longer have predatory aggression and significantly reduce male dominant mentality and territorial aggression.
Neutering also hinders that male cat’s secondary characteristics, such as the developments of bulked up muscles and thick necks. Male cats become more hygienic, friendlier to other cats inside the house, tolerate more handling, they become more affectionate, playful, less vocal and demand more attention. Female cats on the other hand, become slightly more playful, friendlier to other cats, easier to handle, become more affectionate than males and less active.
Though the procedure gives a lot of benefits for you and your cats, there will always be risks and side-effects due to complications. Common concern of most cat owners after neutering their cats is the limping of their cat’s legs. Some soreness is to be expected, but not on the basis that your cat is limping.
If you think the condition is getting worse each day, then it’s time to take your cat to its vet. Your cat may have had an infection. The usual cause of this is their long hair down there, which can easily cause infection, as they normally lick their fur.
Call your veterinarian with your concerns. Any swelling in the operated area may be causing your cat to feel uncomfortable as he walks. If this is the case, then your cat might just need antibiotics and some post-operation pain medicine. If you’re not sure about your vet, then take some second or third opinions from other vets in your area.
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