Ethel Bergster (Polish, b. 1908) // Silly Cat!, 2012 // Laser print || Silly Mr. Cat! Spaying and neutering are absolute necessities for responsible pet owners. It may seem bad now (no one likes to get cut open, Mr. Cat!), but in the long run, it’s the right decision. Millions of homeless pets are taken into shelters each year, but fewer than half are adopted - you can probably imagine what happens to the rest (they get euthanized, Mr. Cat! Euthanized!). The more sterilization, the fewer potential pets shelters have to put down. Along with this, spaying and neutering can have serious health benefits for your pets. According to humanesociety.org, neutered dogs live on average 18% longer than their unclipped friends, and the likelihood of developing one of several cancers is significantly decreased by these procedures. Do you really want cancer, Mr. Cat? When it comes down to it, these procedures aren’t even harmful for the animal, assuming adequate post-operational care. According to mspca.org, “male cats have an incision made in the skin of the scrotum, and the testicles are removed. The incision is not sealed, but will close on its own with time.” It’s that simple. And unlike other animals, male cats don’t even get intubated for the procedure - they just get a face mask! So there you have it, Mr. Cat! Don’t be sad that you’re getting neutered - be happy that you’re helping the world!