Cat Spaying Options

Ovariectomy and Ovariohysterectomy

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Cat spaying is an important health procedure for female cats. Many veterinarians always recommend cat spay for several reasons including preventing serious health conditions like breast cancer and uterus infections. 

In the ovariohysterectomy, the vet removes both uterus and ovaries as part of the American cat spaying procedure. Meanwhile, the ovariectomy refers to a spaying procedure where the veterinarians remove the ovaries and leave the uterus intact. This cat spaying is the done frequently in many countries across Europe and others. 

Why is the Cat Uterus Removed in America?

The primary reason ovariohysterectomy is done in America is that it helps to prevent uterus diseases. If there is no uterus, then it means that there is no risk for the cat contracting diseases associated with the uterus. However, in other countries across the world, ovariectomy is sufficient as certain studies show it is the faster and less-invasive surgery choice with less anesthesia time.  

Which of the Two Types of Cat Spaying is Less Risky?

The risk of complications is rare regardless of which type of cat spaying you choose. Some common complications include weight gain and urinary incontinence. It is worth to note that there is an increased bleeding risk in an ovariohysterectomy because of the extra step of removing the uterus. Hence, it’s difficult to agree with the idea that uterus removal is the better option compared to leaving it inside the belly. 

What About Preventing Uterus-Related Diseases?

The interesting thing that happens after the vet removes the ovaries in a female cat is that the uterus shrinks away or atrophies and dies. It means that the end result will be similar in both ovariectomy and ovariohysterectomy since the uterus will no longer be there, thus reducing risk of uterus-related conditions. 

Does An Ovariectomy Have any Limitations?

The significant limitation of conducting the ovariectomy in cats is the fact that veterinarians recommend it for young and healthy females that have a healthy functioning uterus. In older female cats, the ovariohysterectomy is performed instead.  

Which Cat Spay Option Should you Choose?

Leading American veterinary organizations like AAHA and AVMA have provided no official statement regarding which procedure is best. Rather, they encourage veterinarians to practice either procedure based on the best care standards, including the right surgical technique an optimal sterility. Whichever cat spaying surgery you choose, your female cat will have significant health benefits. 

References: Pet Health Network, Pet Informed Veterinary Advice, ASPCA