Question about spaying

[Wanda]

Dolly is very near to having kittens again, this is her second litter, her first as I posted before was very hard on her and out of four only one survived. I was going to have her spayed soon as she weaned little Gracie, but then she had the gland problem and when she healed from that, I never even knew when she came into heat so here we are again. We have 18 acres in the country and she loves to play outside with her"friends", so I do let her on occasion. Those are my excuses now here is my question. How soon after she has the litter can I have her spayed allowing for her best recovery? I want to have it done as soon as possible but not to quickly so she might be in danger. Thanks, Wanda

[Traci]

Wanda, I suggest getting your vet actively involved with monitoring her at this time as well as the time nearing delivery and preparing yourself to have your vet keep her at the clinic during delivery, to monitor for complications. Since she had so many problems before, you can't assume this delivery would be any smoother.

As for when to spay, it can be done shortly after delivery, but again, since she has a history of problems, I'd let your vet exercise his best judgement on that, depending on her health status, her ability to nurse, and providing there are no complications.

[Wanda]

Thanks Traci,
I need to start out by saying this is a great vet, but I have a very hard time communicating with him and to be honest even being around him, I go in and out as soon as possible. I know it is silly, but I had a toy poodle many years ago that I adored, she got very sick some kind of brain desease and the vet was very kind to her and me but finally he said we needed to put her to sleep for her sake and he took her back gave her something brought her back to me and she died in my arms, this was a tragic experience for me, ever since I just can't stand to be around the vet , and he was so very kind to me. We did not stop using him because he did nothing wrong, of course he doesn't know how I feel. Traci, I don't think I can stand Dolly being there all that time. Yes, I know her needs should come first, but just the spaying has been a hard decision for me. Do you think this absolutely necessary or could I wait to see if she starts having problems? She is very healthy, coat shines, eats great and I've given her extra because of her condition, and kittens are moving lots, the other time never saw them move. Anyway yes I want and trust your advice. Thanks again, Wanda

[Traci]

Wanda, since you have reservations about leaving her there, then I won't force the issue with you. However, at the very most, I strongly suggest at least making sure he will be available to you when the delivery day approaches, in the event you may need his assistance.

If a smooth delivery occurs, if the kittens are healthy, nursing properly, if Dolly is producing enough milk and is healthy and strong herself, then you can put off the spay for at least a couple weeks. During this time, definately keep her/kittens confined and out of reach of any intact males.

I know I don't have to remind you, but spaying her as soon as possible will be to her benefit and her long term health as well.

In the meantime, and for reference, you can check our Pregnancy & Delivery page for tips, guidelines, what to expect, etc.....but do at least stay in contact with your vet should you need his assistance for any reason.

[Wanda]

I read the page and bookmarked it for future references. We have already talked to vet about this situation and he will be available if at all possible. He is a very caring vet and I know he can be relied on. I will watch her closely and not to worry no other animals in the house, she is fully protected. I think time is close though cause she woke me up several times last night walking up and down me, I had to give her extra love. She usually doesn't even come in the bedroom til hubby goes to work, sleeps mostly in my recliner, so I'm thinking this is a sign its not long. If I may bother you with another question, she has become terrified of the vacuum cleaner, just the last week or so. I found her hiding behind tv in bedroom just a shaking, I'm trying not to run it any more than have to, but is there anything I can do to help her. It really broke my heart when I found her like that, I cradled her for the longest. Thanks, Wanda

[Traci]

It's probably a stress/hormonal/protection measure she is exhibiting. She is extremely sensitive to stimuli right now, so the vacuum probably scared her only for that reason. (one suggestion, don't keep the vacuum in the same area you have set up for her to deliver, her birthing area should be private, cozy, warm and free from drafts and away from high traffic areas, as well as away from children and other pets). You can try to confine her in a room with a radio playing when you vacuum, then when you're done, immediately give her attention, a treat, cuddle with her, etc.

[Wanda]

Information much appreciated! Will do as you said. She really likes the tv in bedroom so I may try turning it on for her when vacuuming, and maybe she will calm down after the delivery. I will let you know how things turn out. Want a kitten? lol Wanda

[Traci]

HA! Last time I was in the position to have another kitten, that was.....6 cats ago, LOL.

[Wanda]

Traci,
Spoke with vet today, he does not want to spay Dolly until she has weaned the kittens, told him of your suggestion, and just stated this was his personal preference, but he also said it was a possiblility she would come in heat again before kittens weaned. So since he has always been a very good vet, we have horses too, do I do as he says or should I check with someone else? We have another vet here we have used a couple of times and seems ok, but I know he was willing to spay my mom's after pregnant, and don't know if anything wrong with that. Thanks, Wanda

[Traci]

Technically, for the queen's comfort (and reduction of stress), yes, you can wait until the kittens are at 4 weeks of age, ready to be weaned. But, during this time, it is imperative you keep Dolly seperated and away from any intact males, it only takes a second for mating/conception. She very well could experience a heat cycle within those 4 weeks, so intact males will do whatever it takes to get to her, or vice versa, she may try to escape to mate.

Vets have personal preferences for various reasons, or due to their experiences. But, if there is any potential whatsoever that a male could mate with Dolly or that she could escape to mate, you would want to consider spaying her before the kittens are weaned. Cats are resilient, the spay would only require a few days of normal rest and relaxation with no strenuous activity and you'd have to watch her incision while the kittens nursed her, but otherwise, it is safe to allow the kittens to nurse after a spay. (again, want to watch her incision, and watch closely for any signs of infection from spay and/or mastitis)

If you can 100% guarantee she could not mate, you can wait until the kittens are weaned.