I have a male unneutered kitten (who will be neutered on Tuesday). Would you say that these are the beginnings of "face shields"?
We’re not sure of his age, as he was a stray and we found him less than a month ago. He had his shots first, then two weeks later could be neutered.
Would you say that he has the beginnings of face shields?
“Another reason to neuter a male cat has to do with the physical appearance. A cat neutered prior to puberty (most cats are neutered at approximately age 6 months) do not develop secondary sex characteristics. These include a more muscular body, thickenings around the face called “shields,” and spines on the penis.”
He’s thickened up after we got rid of the worms.
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8 Answers
He looks a bit young to be developing “tom” face. He’s probably just round-headed.
Also, @syz he sleeps an awful lot. I mean most of the day when I’m home. Maybe, he is more active at night when I’m sleeping. Is that normal?
Recheck the parasite situation – that can make them lethargic.
When I see the vet on Tuesday, I’ll mention it. Thanks!
He’s adorable!
I have always preferred to wait and neuter my males around 8–10 months old. I think it’s healthier to wait til they are a little older but understand why neutering and spaying is done younger. My last kitty was 7.5 months and was not showing any major signs of sexual maturity but he was very hefty and muscular and strong which is why I went ahead and neutered him at 7.5 months instead of 8–10. He was clearly developed.
Have you asked your vet to guesstimate his age? If he says under 6–7 months and you are keeping him indoors I would wait a few months longer.
He has already undergone a lot of stress being stray, wormed, etc. his lethargy may be exhaustion and stress related as he adjusts to his new home. I would wait as long as possible to neuter him while he continues to adjust and rest and get over his parasite issues.
I think allowing strays and newly adopted pets to adjust some before a barrage of vet visits is a good idea. Stress can cause other diseases to develop in strays and newly adopted cats.
MIlo here; Face shields? What are they? Do I have them? (I“d better. If I don’t, I am prepared to raid my trust fund and sue Gail…again.)
Me
He looks identical to my son’s female cat, including face shape. The vet should be able to tell approximate age by the teeth. It’s possible he’s gained a little weight due to getting rid of parasites, which might make him look a little different.
Sorry misunderstood, my male was neutered at 4mths old and he is still the large tomcat he would have been. Every one who comes over can’t believe his size, she is quite muscluar.
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