A female cat can start to reproduce from the age of six months and could be responsible for in excess of 20,000 descendants within five years!

This, of course, produces a situation where homes cannot be found for all the kittens and many end up feral and unwanted, with all the associated problems which go with such a situation. In addition to leading an unhappy existence, they are far more likely to spread diseases amongst themselves and those cats living as pets in proper homes.

An uncastrated male cat marks his territory with strong smelling urine. This is called spraying. He will do this inside the house as well as around the garden. He will disappear for days or even weeks, often turning up injured or ill from untreated wounds. Most cats killed on the roads are uncastrated toms.

In an attempt to remedy this problem Cats Protection offers financial assistance in the form of Neutering Vouchers. These can be used at local vets and go towards, and in some cases cover, the cost of neutering both male and female cats.