In October, I brought in a stray cat (Emmie). I took Emmie to the vets for a check-up and to determine whether or not she had been "fixed". They shaved her little tummy to see if they could locate a scar, but could not. The vet indicated that a scar would be proof that she had been spayed, but the lack of being able to view the scar does not mean that she has not been.

My question - how can I know for certain whether she has or has not? Many people have told me that it is very possible for her to go into heat without my ever knowiing as not all females do the whaling and such. Any thoughts on this???

(I'm starting to be a little nervous as she got out the other day and there are several male strays around and I do NOT want kittens!!! )

Lydia

I can’t blame you for not wanting any kittens. They are a lot of work for you and the momma kitty as well. We also faced the same question years ago when we brought into the house a “stray “ kitty. This is a hard one, its probably not very comforting news to hear that the only way to find out for sure is to do an exploratory surgery.


The only other option is to keep a watch on her for signs of “heat”. The nonstop kitty cries is the most often seen sign of a kitty is coming into heat or is already in heat. Other behaviors that also indicate that a kitty has gone into “heat” such as rolling on floor and intense rubbing against objects, Spraying urine “tomcat” style, Suggestive postures, if the kitty is confined in the house; a strong desire to escape. Persistently following owner around when in heat.

There may be a good chance of kitty is in “heat” if any of these behaviors or a combination are exhibited.

There is a blood test available that can show if she is producing female hormones. If she is spayed, these hormones won't be as present.

Not all vet offer this test and I have no idea how much it would cost.

Other than actually doing surgery, there really isn't any other way to know for sure.

I think that I would take the cat for a second opinion. The vet should be able to palpate the female organs. There should be a scar.

I would risk getting the cat fixed if you still can't find any conclusive information. They will sew her back up and she will be fine if it turns out she has been spayed.