Last updated: September 2026
Quick answer: Neutering a male cat (castration) in the UK costs around £104 on average, and spaying a female cat around £149, according to ManyPets’ latest national survey. Prices range from about £70 to £250 for castration and £85 to £350 for spaying, with London the most expensive area. Pet insurance doesn’t cover routine neutering, but Cats Protection and other charities offer free or low-cost neutering to eligible owners.
This guide covers what cat neutering costs, why spaying costs more, what the price includes and how to pay less.
How much does it cost to neuter a cat?
| Procedure | UK average | Lowest found | Highest found |
|---|---|---|---|
| Castration (male) | £103.82 | £70 | £250 |
| Spay (female) | £148.83 | £85 | £350 |
Source: ManyPets survey of UK vets, published 2025. Spaying costs around 44% more than castration because it is internal abdominal surgery that takes longer and needs more aftercare.
Prices by region
Where you live makes a big difference. In the same survey, London was the most expensive area, with an average of £128.84 for castration and £174.72 for a spay. The Central region was cheapest for castration (£93.91) and Wales cheapest for spaying (£136.91). Prices have been rising: castration now averages over £100 in most regions.
What the price usually includes
For a healthy young cat, the price usually covers a pre-operative check, anaesthetic, surgery, pain relief and a post-operative check. Ask whether pre-anaesthetic blood tests, a cone or recovery suit and stitch removal are included. Older cats, cats in season and pregnant cats can cost more because the surgery is more complex.
Free and low-cost cat neutering
Cats Protection runs neutering schemes that can make the operation free or very cheap for eligible owners, and the PDSA, RSPCA and Blue Cross may also help, depending on where you live and your circumstances. Some local councils also run neutering voucher schemes. Check each organisation’s eligibility rules.
Does pet insurance cover cat neutering?
No. Routine neutering is a planned, elective procedure, so standard cat insurance excludes it. See does pet insurance cover neutering and routine care?
Other ways to pay less
- Compare local prices. Neutering prices must be published by practices under the CMA’s price-list rules; see your rights after the CMA vet review.
- Use a health plan discount if your practice offers one; see vet health plans.
- Budget for the kitten year, when vaccinations, microchipping and neutering all come at once; see cat vaccination costs.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to spay a cat in the UK?
Around £149 on average, with prices from about £85 to £350 depending on your practice and region.
Why is spaying a cat more expensive than castration?
Spaying is abdominal surgery that takes longer and needs more aftercare.
Can I get my cat neutered for free?
Possibly. Cats Protection and other charities run schemes for eligible owners. Check their websites.
Is it cheaper to neuter a kitten?
The price is usually the same, but young, healthy cats are generally straightforward to operate on. Ask your vet about the best age.
Does neutering cost more for a cat in season?
Often, yes, because the surgery is more complex. Many vets prefer to wait until the season has passed.
Key takeaways
- Cat castration costs around £104 on average and a spay around £149.
- London is the most expensive area; prices are rising across the UK.
- Insurance doesn’t cover neutering, but charities offer free or low-cost schemes.
- Ask what’s included before you book.
Prices are typical ranges based on published surveys, not quotes. Ask your practice for its current price.