Cats can be fluffy, adorable, and fun. However, life as a pet owner requires more than feeding and playing with your furry friends. If you live with cats, here are four solid reasons to consider visiting a veterinarian who offers spay and neuter services.

1) Spaying and neutering can help your cat live a longer, healthier life

Getting your cat spayed or neutered may prolong their life span, especially if you have a male cat. Research indicates that on average, neutered male cats live 62% longer than unneutered cats. Spayed female cats also lead long lives and live an average of 39% longer than cats who aren't spayed.

Also, spaying and neutering your pet helps reduce the risk of your cat developing cancer. For example, spayed females have a much lower chance of developing mammary cancer. Neutering males also decreases their risk of testicular cancer.

2) Spaying and neutering can help reduce the number of homeless animals

Sadly, there are millions of homeless animals living on the street or in shelters. In the U.S. alone, it's estimated that millions of cats and dogs enter shelters every year. And of those animals, approximately half a million cats are euthanized annually.

Spaying or neutering your cat can help reduce the number of homeless animals because it prevents them from reproducing. So, if you're considering spaying or neutering your cat, know that you're not only helping your pet, but you're also helping other animals in need.

3) Spaying and neutering can help your cat behave better

Cats who haven't been spayed or neutered may exhibit aggressive behaviors, such as fighting with other cats or spraying urine to mark their territory. These behaviors are typically motivated by a desire to mate, so requesting spay and neuter services for your cat can help reduce or eliminate such behaviors.

4) Spaying and neutering can save you money in the long run

While spaying and neutering may require an initial investment, it can actually save you money in the long run. For example, spaying your cat eliminates the need for costly and inconvenient heat cycles. Neutering your male cat will also help prevent him from roaming, which can reduce the risk of him getting hit by a car or getting into fights with other animals.

Additionally, spaying and neutering can help you avoid unexpected litters of kittens. If you're not prepared to care for a litter of kittens, spaying or neutering your cat can help prevent an unwanted pregnancy.

Protect your cat's health by scheduling spay and neuter services today. A veterinarian clinic can help you learn more about these common procedures.