Q. We have a 5-month-old kitten named Rascal. What age is best to neuter him? He's a personable cat, but he's driving our 9-year-old female cat crazy. 

A. Now is a perfect time to neuter Rascal. Several studies support neutering at an early age, even as early as 6 weeks, with no particular associated problems.

He may still chase your female cat around for a while, but in the long run, he'll settle down and eventually give his friend some peace and quiet.