How much does it cost to spay a cat?

Updated 11/09/2024

For many pet parents, ensuring their cat or kitten is spayed right away is a key part of welcoming them into the family. Spaying involves removing a female cat’s reproductive organs, which prevents any furry surprises and keeps purr pals healthier in the long run.

When weighing up the pros and cons of this procedure, it’s only natural for pet owners to consider how much it’s going to set them back. Here, we’re answering the question “How much does it cost to spay a cat?” and breaking down the benefits and potential drawbacks of the procedure so you can make the best decision for your furry family member.

What affects the cost to spay a cat?

There’s no straight answer to the question “How much does it cost to get a cat spayed?”, and the outcome can vary depending on a number of factors: 

Location

Your location affects the price tag of everything from gas to a meal out, so it’s only natural for this to include the cost of spaying a cat. If you live in a bustling city where the cost of living is higher, you can expect vet bills to follow suit – although you may also notice reduced rates due to increased competition. On the flip side, rural areas often offer cheaper options than big cities. 

The facility you choose 

Non-profit services and low-cost clinics are likely to be the most budget-friendly options, while private veterinary practices tend to be a bit pricier. Animal shelters and mobile pop-up clinics also often offer spaying services and usually fall somewhere in the middle in terms of cost. Your access to these services may depend on your individual circumstances. 

There are a number of other factors you may wish to consider when deciding which facility is right for your kitty cat. Things that can affect the costs of the procedure include bloodwork prior to the procedure (to identify any potential medical conditions), advanced surgical techniques, and specialized monitoring equipment or vet training.

Payment method

Your payment method can also affect the cost of spaying cats. While the procedure isn’t usually covered by pet insurance, some vets may help you set up a payment plan to make it more affordable.

Your cat’s medical history

The cost of spaying a cat isn’t necessarily a flat fee, and can also be influenced by your feline friend’s medical background. If your cat has a history of health issues like kidney or heart problems, or infections (like feline leukemia virus), or if your cat experiences heavy bleeding during the procedure, the spaying process might need extra care and attention. This could bump up the cost. If your purr pal happens to be in heat during the procedure, you can also expect to pay a little more, however, it’s not recommended to spay a cat in heat. 

How much does it cost to spay a cat in the USA?

The average cost to spay a cat in the USA is $150-$300, but you may pay as little as $30 or as much as $500, depending on the factors outlined above.

How much does it cost to spay a cat in the UK?

You can expect to pay a little less to spay your cat in the UK – here, it ranges from £50-£100. However, if you live in a place where the cost of living is high, you may end up shelling out up to £300 for the procedure. On the flip side, some charities offer the procedure for free to those who qualify. 

What are the benefits of spaying a cat? 

The obvious benefit of spaying your cat is that you won’t have any furry surprises. But as well as preventing unplanned parenthood, this operation could extend your feline friend’s lifespan! Here are some of the benefits of spaying your cat:

• Lowers the chance of uterine infections or pyometra.
• Reduces the risk of developing breast cancer and ovarian cancer.
• It often improves behavior and means your cat’s less likely to be excessively vocal, spray, or be aggressive toward other cats.
• Prevents overpopulation. 

Potential risks of spaying a cat

While spaying a cat is a routine procedure, that doesn’t mean it’s completely risk-free. Possible complications include:

• Negative reaction to the anesthetic.
• Internal bleeding during surgery.
• Herniation.
• Damage to organs.
• Post-operation infections. 
• Wound breakdown.
  

Your vet will explain these risks in detail and tell you how to monitor your cat and minimize the chances of complications post-surgery. Oh, and if you’re going away and leaving your furry feline with their favorite in-home cat sitter, be sure to fill them in!

Overall, vets believe that spaying your cat is one of the best investments in your furry friend’s health. Not only does it come with a whole host of health benefits for female cats, but it also helps prevent overpopulation, ensuring that every kitten has the chance of finding a safe and loving home. 

Meet our veterinary expert, Emma

This article has been checked by veterinarian Emma Chandley, BVetMed MRCVS PGCertSAS. Emma graduated from the Royal Vet College in London in 2011. She has a keen interest in surgery and went on to do a postgraduate certificate in small animal surgery and was then awarded advanced practitioner status in the same discipline.