Spaying and Neutering your Pet

Spaying and neutering (or sterilization) are surgical procedures performed by veterinarians that render cats incapable of breeding by removing their reproductive organs. Spaying and neutering is very important to control the pet population and for your pets health and well being. It can also reduce medical and behavioural problems. We recommend having your pet sterilized on or before 6 months of age. 

Elimination of Unwanted Litters

Sterilization ensures that your pet won’t contribute to the feline overpopulation problem. Even a cat that lives indoors may escape and produce kittens if not sterilized. Each year, millions of homeless cats are euthanized or end up in shelters due to a lack of good homes.
 
 Other benefits of sterilization:           

• Decrease risk/elimination of reproductive cancers
• Decreased rates of injury and disease transmission due to roaming
• Decreased rates/elimination of hormone driven urine marking and other hormone related behaviours

Male Cat Neuter Program

Male cats must be six months of age of older to qualify for this program. Please complete the application and when you submit your application in person also present:

• current income tax assessment for all family members living in the household 
• Proof of St. John’s residency
• Payment

Bring the completed application and other items listed above to the Animal Care & Adoption Centre at 81 Higgins Line Tuesday - Friday noon to 4 p.m.

The City's goal is to double the number of male cats neutered annually with no limit per household.

Successful applicants will be contacted with the surgical appointment date, time and instructions. Surgeries will be performed by a local animal hospital within a few weeks after the submission date.

Female Cat Spay Program

Cats must be six months of age or older to qualify for this program. Complete the application and when you submit your application also include:

• current income tax assessment for all family members living in the household 
• Proof of St. John’s residency

You can mail, fax, email or drop off the application and other items listed above until further notice.

Dogs

The City of St. John's does not provide a spay/neuter assistance program for dogs. Contact your veterinarian or check with your local SPCA to inquire about spaying or neutering your dog. A complete list of licensed Veterinary Clinics in Newfoundland and Labrador can be found at Newfoundland and Labrador Veterinary Medical Association.