The Case for Spay & Neuter

Sit with these facts for a minute:

• A female cat can go into her first heat as early as 4 months old, and can be fertile until age 10.

• Female cats typically have 2 to 3 litters of kittens a year, with an average of 4 to 6 kittens in each litter

• If we do the math, that calculates to almost 200 kittens, potentially, from one healthy cat in its lifetime.

• The most kittens born to one cat on record is "Dusty" a female in Texas, who gave birth to 420 kittens in her lifetime.

Unaltered cats and dogs that are not kept indoors are more susceptible to injury, fighting, and illnesses.  They will also roam farther from home to follow a scent further creating risk of injury.  Even those kept indoors are more at risk of escape and other behavioral issues caused by raging hormones and the innate need to procreate.

Contra Costa Animal Services has built a team of veterinary professionals who provide spay and neuter services, in coordination with the volunteers that trap, neuter and release (TNR) cats found throughout the county, and ensure they have access to food and water.  CCAS Foundation has a special agreement with East Bay Parks to trap, neuter, and relocate cats found in the regional parks.  This program supports the cats and protects them from predators. Additionally, it provides a safer haven for wildlife that may be natural prey for the cats.

It takes a village to support the animals in our community.  We are so fortunate to the TNR community for their time and efforts to support unhoused cats.  Because every life matters.