I have a kitten at home that arrived about three weeks ago. I'm not a cat expert; I've never had one before, and I'm just now learning how to handle this situation. Several people have suggested I should neuter the cat. After doing some research, I realized there's a debate about this; some people are against it, and others are in favor.
Benefits of castration:
Less desire to roam, therefore less likely to be injured in fights or auto accidents.
Risk of testicular cancer is eliminated, and decreases incidence of prostate disease.
Reduces number of unwanted cats and kittens.
Decreases aggressive behavior, including biting and scratching.
Helps cats live longer, healthier lives.
I'm caught between a rock and a hard place. I see castration as beneficial because it prevents multiple diseases transmitted through mating. Near my area, there's an overpopulation of stray cats living in poor conditions.
The downsides of castration include the hormonal risks involved, a slower metabolism, and increased appetite, which can lead to weight gain and obesity. Urinary problems may also develop. All veterinarians will tell you to neuter him.
Another much discussed topic is whether cats should have free access to the streets, to come and go as they please. Some view this practice as irresponsible and abominable. The opposite is true. Some argue that cats should be free to move around and explore, while others point out the many risks of being hit by a car, getting lost, dying, or being seriously injured in a fight.
If it's a stray cat, it absolutely must be spayed or neutered. In fact, every cat kept at home should be spayed or neutered. The math is simple: 18 kittens a year, that's 180 kittens in 10 years. It's a hardship for the animal too.
Congrats on the new kitten!
I have a neutered cat that basically adopted us as a kitten. He comes and goes as he pleases because it didn't feel right to me to lock him up inside. In the summer he's mostly an outdoor cat and in the winter he hangs out inside a lot more.
He's incredibly good natured to people - most of the neighbors know him and I know he hangs out in their homes sometimes. But he also scraps with the local cats constantly. I wish he were a little less territorial. He's 10 now he stays at a healthy weight all on his own just from getting out and about. No regrets about getting him neutered.
If you have a new kitten, you should have a few months before you need to make the decision.