Busting the Biggest Myths About Neutering

When it comes to the welfare of community cats, neutering is one of the most powerful tools we have. Yet, myths and misconceptions often stop people from taking this crucial step. Let’s set the record straight with some common myths—and the truths behind them.

Myth 1: “It’s against nature to neuter animals.”

Truth: Human presence has already disrupted “nature.” Stray cats don’t live in untouched ecosystems—they live in busy villages, tourist hotspots, and streets filled with dangers like cars, poison, and disease. Left unchecked, cat populations grow beyond what the community can support, leading to starvation and suffering. Neutering is not an attack on nature—it’s a way to restore balance and reduce harm.

Myth 2: “They’ll get fat and lazy after neutering.”

Truth: Cats only gain weight if they eat more than they need and don’t exercise enough. Neutering doesn’t cause laziness—plenty of neutered cats stay active, playful, and just as lively as before. With the right diet and care, they remain healthy and energetic.

Myth 3: “Neutering is a dangerous operation.”

Truth: Spaying and neutering are routine surgical procedures performed every day by trained veterinarians. They are quick, safe, and recovery is usually smooth. The risks are minimal compared to the dangers of life without neutering—disease, injuries from fighting, and complications from repeated pregnancies.

Myth 4: “It’s better to let a cat have one litter first.”

Truth: There is no health benefit to letting a cat have kittens before being neutered. In fact, early neutering reduces the risk of certain cancers and reproductive diseases. Preventing that “one litter” avoids adding to an already overwhelming population of stray cats.

Myth 5: “It’s okay if she gives birth, because we already have homes for the kittens.”

Truth: Greece is already overflowing with stray cats and kittens looking for homes. Every new litter reduces the chances of existing kittens being adopted. By neutering, you’re giving the cats already here a better chance at a safe and loving home.

Myth 6: “We’ll run out of cats if we neuter them all.”

Truth: Sadly, we are nowhere near that point. The reality is the opposite—too many cats are born into suffering. Neutering prevents more unwanted litters, helping to create a healthier, more stable community cat population.

Myth 7: “Neutering changes their personality.”

Truth: Cats keep their unique personalities. What changes is the reduction of hormone-driven behaviours like spraying, yowling, and fighting. Neutered cats are often calmer, healthier, and more focused on enjoying life.

Myth 8: “Male cats don’t need to be neutered—it’s only important for females.”

Truth: Male cats contribute just as much to overpopulation as females do. Neutering males also reduces fighting, spraying, and the spread of disease through bites and mating.

Myth 9: “Cats should be allowed to roam and breed freely—they’ll control the rat population.”

Truth: While cats may catch the occasional mouse, their hunting is indiscriminate. They kill birds, reptiles, and other wildlife, often harming ecosystems rather than helping them. Neutered cats still hunt if they’re inclined, but without contributing to the cycle of overpopulation.

Myth 10: “Neutering is only necessary for strays—my pet cat doesn’t need it.”

Truth: Even indoor cats can slip outside accidentally. One unplanned pregnancy is enough to add more kittens to an already overwhelming stray population. Neutering also benefits house cats’ health and prevents unwanted behaviours like spraying and calling during heat.

The Bottom Line

Neutering saves lives. It’s safe, effective, and the most humane way to manage cat populations while protecting both cats and communities. By busting these myths, we can work together to create a kinder, healthier future for Greece’s cats.