Sherri
Thanks Dr. Falconer and Kathi for your replies. The only reason I'm considering spaying my female cat is at her last pregnancy (her one & only) she got mastitis during nursing. While we were able to clear this up homeopathically, it took some time and she lost 3 nipples - just totally shriveled up and either fell off or were bit off. She managed to raise all 5 to be healthy kittens and we've just finished giving most away. However, I am concerned about any future litters not being able to be nourished properly. I don't think I could stand seeing some of them starve, but I'm not up to the task of feeding them either. In this situation, is spaying her best option? I don't think keeping her inside during heat is an option as we have 2 family members allergic to cats, so she must stay outside.