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Traditional age vs. pediatric spays & neuters in cats : is it worth the wait?

Author
Whittred, Susan
Abstract
The problem of companion animal overpopulation in the United States is a serious issue wrought with multifaceted
barriers standing in the way of complete elimination. This paper will focus on surgical sterilization as one means to
control over-population. Recent studies estimate that 3 to 4 million cats are euthanized annually and these numbers
do not include those unwanted animals that are left to starve or to die of trauma or exposure. One of the main
reasons cited for relinquishment of animals to a humane society (36.4%) was that the animals were from an
unwanted litter. Traditionally, shelters across the country have adopted animals out with contracts mandating that
new owners spay or neuter their pets. Studies have shown that there is less than 60% compliance with this mandate,
despite preadoption screening, prepayment of surgical fees, reduced surgical fees, neuter contracts, and follow up
activity by shelter personnel. Even in those households that do comply, it can be estimated that many of those
cats may wander outside prior to gonadectomy to make their contribution to the overpopulation problem. Just a
single pair of cats may be the progenitors of 174,760 kittens in 7 years even if they and their offspring are not
allowed to reproduce at full potential.
Journal/Series
Senior seminar paper Seminar SF610.1 2003 W451
Description
Senior seminar (D.V.M.) -- Cornell University, 2003.
Includes bibliographical references (leaves 12-14).
Sponsorship
Dr. Leslie Appel
Date Issued
2003-01-22Subject
Cats -- Reproduction; Cats -- Surgery
Type
term paper