According to the ASPCA, there are at least 70 million stray cats in the United States, but this figure is difficult to truly set in concrete because there is no way to contain all of the strays and count them. If you have a kitty, it is always best of you go ahead and spay or neuter your pet. This not only helps to keep overpopulation in check, but may also prolong the life of your feline. One of the biggest reasons cats are not spayed or neutered by their owners is the costs and charges associated. Here are a few of the most common questions you may have about getting your cat spayed or neutered.

How much is it to get a cat spayed or neutered?

There are several factors that can affect how much it is to have a cat spayed or neutered, such as the age of your cat and the location where you live. However, you should expect neutering to cost from $50 to $100 and spaying from $100 to $200, according to CostHelper.com.

Is it true that it can cost more to have a female spayed if she has already had kittens?

It will not usually cost more to have a cat spayed who has already had a litter of kittens, but it can cost more if she is in heat. This is because there is a good chance that your kitty may already be pregnant and the surgery can be much more complex than it normally would.

Aren't there programs available to help cover the costs of the procedure?

Some states and cities do have low-cost spay and neuter programs available for residents. With these programs, you will usually be able to get the procedure performed for a lower cost, and in some cases maybe even free. Additionally, some areas have specific programs for low-income pet owners that will provide a voucher good for use at a local spay and neuter clinic. This provides benefits to both pet owners and local governments, as animal control costs may improve over time with more cats being spayed and neutered.

When you take a look at how affordable it really is to have your cat spayed or neutered, it is likely that you will be ready to schedule an appointment. Talk to a spay and neuter clinic or veterinarian, like those at Fischer Animal Hospital, about any additional cost questions you have.