We were enquiring to book our 2 female kittens in for spaying next month at our vet when we were given the option of either a belly incision or a flank incision. I just assumed it would just be on the belly, but now we are confronted with a decision. The receptionist said that some cat owners opt for the belly incision as sometimes after the fur has been shaved the fur may grow back a different colour (they were not sure though if this was the case for bengals but it can be for Siamese). But we really don't want this to happen on our bengals! The belly incision is more expensive. Has anyone else had this option? What do people go for? Has anyone had the flank incision on their bengal and all been ok with the hair colour?

All my cats have only ever been spayed with the flank incision and I've never had any problems with the pattern but I've only had 3 Bengals though and none were for showing. I think the belly incision can take a little longer to recover from but it seems to be the usual way of doing it in some European countries.

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aah that's handy to know sue, thanks.
sorry to anyone if i gave misleading info...i'm still learning too

Thanks, thats all really useful information. I think we shall go with the flank option then

Hi Tamsssin

I had my bengal female mid-line spayed about 2 years ago. This is the only female I have ever had done as always had males in the past. My vets only do mid-line spay & I have to say she recovered very quickly The other thing I have noticed is she still has a nice long lean look to her as opposed to them gaining weight when they are done she has done this but still has a nice shape!!

The choice is ultimately yours but just thought I would share the info I have.

Hope you do not think I am interferring & hope this may help

Here in the US, the belly incision is the regular way to spay. Flank incision usually isn't done unless requested or needed for medical reason. I think Britain is the only place where flank incision is the regular way of doing it. Anyway, I think unless you have a snow bengal you probably don't have to worry about the fur growing back in a different color.

Saffy (my snow girl) had a flank spay operation and the fur initially grew back darker in that one place, but the other side then proceeded to catch up (colour-wise) some months later.