Is it harder/more dangerous to fix a cat while she's in heat?

Question

I've heard that some vets charge more to fix a cat in heat because it is more dangerous that way. Is that at all true? And if so, could someone explain to me why?

I have a female cat who's just starting to go into heat, and because we just got another male cat I'd like to get her fixed as soon as possible.

Answer 1

The veins in the uterus are swollen, so if they try to do the surgery the cat has a chance of bleeding to death.  It is better to keep the cat's separated until she isn't in heat anymore and you can get her fixed!

Answer 2

When a cat is in heat here uterus swells up and there is a bigger chance of her bleeding to dead.

Answer 3

Newer medical techniques make the operation less dangerous during estrus than it was 20 years ago. Back then a vet would not spay the cat if it was in heat. Now they will and usually there is no extra charge, or a nominal fee to cover the procedure.

As another has said it is far less dangerous than keeping a house full of unwanted kittens. So Git-er-done!

Answer 4

It does cost more, usually $10-$20 more depending on the vet. The reason is that during the heat cycle, the reproductive organs swell and have a more generous supply of blood. As a result, there will be more bleeding. It is not necessarily dangerous, but it can be a bit more difficult. It's much less dangerous and less stressful than an unplanned, unwanted litter of kittens in a world already full of homeless pets.  I'd have it done immediately if it were me.