Why should I sterilise an animal?
Clearing up common misconceptions about sterilising cats and dogs on Mykonos.
There are many differing opinions and common misconceptions about sterilising animals. Hopefully by the time you finish reading this page, we will have cleared up a few things for you.
You have probably noticed that Mykonos has a big feral cat problem. When kittens reach about 4 months old, they reach sexual maturity — which means they are able to get pregnant.
Main reasons to sterilise cats and dogs
- Population control — one pregnant cat can have up to 3 litters a year, leading to exponential growth if left uncontrolled.
- Nuisance prevention — unsterilised animals call, fight, spray, and make noise defending territory.
- Preventing needless suffering — we see countless animals treated terribly every year.
- Health and wellbeing — STDs, cancer, fight injuries, and road accidents are more common in unsterilised roaming animals.
Isn't sterilising an animal expensive?
Getting an animal sterilised is a great way to prevent much more expensive vet bills further down the road. The small cost upfront will pay large dividends for the rest of your animal's life.
What is the best age to sterilise my cat or dog?
As soon as your vet recommends. Waiting until 6 months is outdated — kittens can become pregnant from 4 months. Juvenile neutering from 8 weeks is recommended internationally, though Mykonian vets may prefer later. If your vet will not sterilise early, keep the animal indoors until the procedure. Consult your vet, but do not delay unnecessarily.
Isn't it unnatural or cruel to sterilise a cat or dog?
Our pets and local strays rely on us to make the right decisions for them. Every year in Greece tens of thousands of cats and dogs are destroyed or die on the streets — until this tragedy is addressed, it is cruel and irresponsible to bring more animals into the world.
Should my female cat have a litter before being sterilised?
No. There are no health benefits to allowing a litter first. Spaying before the first heat dramatically reduces the risk of feline AIDS and mammary tumours. Have the operation as soon as you can.
Do I need to sterilise my male cat?
One male cat can impregnate many stray females. Sterilising males also prevents injuries, disease spread, and antisocial behaviour like spraying and fighting.
Will sterilising change my cat's personality?
No — in fact, not neutering often changes personality for the worse when hormones kick in. Neutering before maturity prevents spraying, aggression, and distressing heat behaviour.
Have the operation as soon as you can. If you need help, contact MAW or take the animal directly to a local vet.