£5 Cat Neutering Scheme Unveiled

Ulster cat owners have been urged to get their pets neutered under a new £5 scheme launched by a leading animal charity.

Cats Protection is offering cat lovers on a limited income or means-tested benefits the chance to have their pet treated at a local veterinary practice. Now in its third year, the offer means owner can take their unneutered cat to a veterinary practice and pay just £5 for the operation.

The veterinary practice then sends a voucher to Cats Protection, who will pay the remaining cost.

The offer is part of Cats Protection's Assisted Neutering Scheme, which has been set up to reduce the growing numbers of unwanted cats in the region, and benefit the health of cats.

Janice Watt, Cats Protection's Northern Ireland Campaigns Manager, who manages the scheme, said: "Just one unneutered cat can produce 18 kittens in one year so neutering your cat will help the charity to reduce the numbers of unwanted cats that are brought to the charity or dumped and left to fend for themselves.

"In addition, neutering also makes cats less likely to fight and pass on diseases through biting and saliva. Given that it costs between £25 and £40 to neuter a male cat, and £45 to £60 to neuter a female cat, there really is no better time to get your cat neutered for just £5."

Neutering your cat will also help your local veterinary practice to compete for the title of Cats Protection’s Neutering Practice of the Year, Northern Ireland.

The veterinary practice that has the most neutering vouchers processed by the charity between 1 May 2008 and 1 May 2009 will receive a trophy and certificate at a ceremony in June.

For further details about neutering your cat for £5, or details of your nearest participating vet, please call Cats Protection's neutering hotline on 0845 606 3036.

(PR/JM)