Resources

Spaying & Neutering
It's the right thing to do!

Welcome to our comprehensive resource on spaying and neutering your pet cat. Here, you'll find valuable information about the importance of these procedures, their health benefits, and how they can help manage the pet population. Empower yourself with knowledge to make informed decisions for your furry friend.

Important Information for Persian and Himalayan Cats

Many veterinarians are not experienced with the unique body structures of Persian and Himalayan purebred kittens and cats, which could pose potential risks during surgery. It’s crucial to carefully select the right veterinarian for your kitten’s procedure.

Ensure that your veterinarian is aware that Persians and Exotic Shorthairs naturally have elongated soft palates. This is a normal characteristic of the breed. Your veterinarian and their certified staff should follow established guidelines for endotracheal intubation of kittens prior to surgery. Verify that the staff is certified and experienced in intubating kittens.

Be extremely cautious, as forcing intubation in a kitten or cat can lead to a laryngeal spasm, which may result in immediate death.

Here are some precautions you can take to safeguard your kitten during surgery:

Share these guidelines with your veterinarian before the procedure.
Ask detailed questions about their experience and approach to intubation.
If possible, be present when your kitten comes out of surgery. Respectfully request to observe your kitten closely before and after the endotracheal tube is removed.
If allowed, observe from a distance during the intubation process to ensure the tube is inserted gently and according to standard veterinary protocols.

A trustworthy veterinarian should not object to you watching the procedure from a safe distance. Your presence can help ensure that proper care is taken, and they remain vigilant throughout the process.

Guidelines from Oklahoma State University - Center for Veterinary Health Sciences

The following recommendations are taken from Page 14 of their Feline Anesthesia Instruction Manual:

Endotracheal Intubation

Laryngeal spasm is easily provoked; the use of lidocaine spray or a short-acting muscle relaxant can facilitate intubation.
In deep anesthesia, laryngeal spasm does not occur, but this is not recommended as a routine procedure. For emergency intubation following an accidental anesthetic overdose, the use of lidocaine spray or muscle relaxants may not be necessary.
Forceful intubation through tightly apposed vocal folds can result in damage to the mucous membrane, leading to edema and a risk of post-extubation airway obstruction.
Cats may experience a laryngeal spasm after extubation. Endotracheal tubes should be removed carefully without deliberately lightening anesthesia. Mucus should be aspirated from the airway before removal.
A standard laryngoscope with an infant-size blade is helpful for viewing the larynx.
A 4.5–5.5 mm ET tube is appropriate for most adult cats, and a stylet can be used to facilitate intubation.

Ketamine Injectable Anesthesia Dangers

The Feline Health Blog has issued a warning about the use of Ketamine as an injectable anesthetic during surgeries. Ketamine poses serious risks, including death, particularly in certain feline breeds like Siamese, Orientals, and Persians.

While Ketamine is inexpensive and commonly used, its potential side effects are severe. It is vital to inform your veterinarian that you do not consent to the use of Ketamine for any reason during your kitten or cat’s surgery. Request that your cat’s medical records be flagged to reflect this preference.

The Benefits of Spaying and Neutering

The benefits of spaying and neutering are both clear and significant. These procedures not only help control the pet population but also promote better health and behavior in our feline friends.

Key benefits of neutering include:

Reducing the risk of certain health issues
Preventing unwanted litters
Minimizing behavioral problems
Enhancing the bond between pet and owner

Why Is Neutering a Cat Important?

One major benefit of neutering is the reduced risk of certain health issues. Studies show that neutered male cats are less prone to testicular cancer and prostate problems. Similarly, spaying female cats greatly reduces the risk of ovarian and uterine cancers, which can be life-threatening (Source: ASPCA).

Behavioral problems are also common in unaltered cats. Neutering often results in decreased aggression and a calmer demeanor in male cats. For females, spaying reduces yowling and curbs the urge to roam, making them more content and easier to care for.

Please come join us as we discuss the best nutrition for your cat and kitten.

When cats are fed a diet high in corn or other grains, that it will eventually catch up with them in health issues. I want to stress that cats are carnivores, their bodies are designed to eat and process meat and fat, not grains.

In the wild, cats are carnivores, they eat meat and fat. An example would be a mouse. Please make sure your are feeding the best high quality dry food to your kittens and cats that contain at least 40% protein and 20% fat. We feed 50% Raw because it meets the standard for a carnivore. Pet parents should add vitamin and mineral supplements to ensure their cats are getting all the nutrients they need. They need vitamins, minerals, calcium, probiotics, prebiotics, Omega 3,6,9 and taurine added to their raw diets.

Royal Canin dry food~

Dr. Esley's Dry food~

Purina Pro Plan dry food~

Tiki Cat dry food~

Canned food~

Raw kitten grind~

Our cats only use paper litter because it keeps their fur as clean as possible. Persian and EXO LH cats drink water from a fountain because it is very important not to get the fur on their chest wet. Only EXO SH cats can drink water from small bowls because there is no risk of getting their fur wet. Do not use plastic bowls for water or food because they harbor bacteria and are more difficult to disinfect.