How old does a cat have to be to be fixed?

Kittens typically can be safely spayed or neutered by 8 weeks of age, according to the ASPCA. Animal shelters often perform spay and neuter surgeries at this age to ensure sterilization before adoption.

Veterinarians recommend scheduling spay or neuter surgery for cats before 5 months of age, states the ASPCA. A veterinarian can recommend the appropriate age for individual cats. Spaying and neutering pets not only prevents pregnancies and behavior issues, but it is also very beneficial for their health. Spaying helps lower the risk of uterine infections and breast tumors in female cats, while neutering male cats can prevent testicular cancer and some prostate issues.