Neutering cats increases life expectancy, according to pet food manufacturer Royal Canin. However, the company says that within 48 hours of sterilization surgery, cats experience physiological changes such as a slower metabolism and a greater appetite.
The percentage of obese cats increases after neutering, in males by 15 to 27 percent and by 20 to 23 percent in females, according to the company. Overweight and obese cats are 3.9 times more likely to suffer from diabetes mellitus, while sterilized females have an increased risk of urinary stones, Royal Canin reports.
To address the nutritional needs of neutered and spayed cats by sex and by age, Royal Canin developed Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Neutered Cat food in four formulas: Growth (from weaning through spay/neutering), Neutered Cat Young Male (post-surgery to age 7), Neutered Cat Young Adult (post-surgery to age 7, for mixed cat households) and Neutered Cat Mature (for neutered cats over 7 years of age).
Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Neutered Cat is available only at veterinary clinics.
For more information, visit the Royal Canin website.
Posted: Dec. 21, 2005, 3p.m. EST