when should cats be spayed

Cats should typically be spayed between 4 to 6 months of age, ideally before they go into their first heat cycle. This timing helps prevent early pregnancies, reduces the risk of certain reproductive diseases like ovarian and mammary cancer, and can also help prevent unwanted behaviors linked to heat. Some animal shelters perform spaying as early as 8 to 16 weeks old, provided the kittens are healthy. Even though spaying can be done at any age, earlier spaying is generally preferred for health benefits and to avoid overpopulation issues.