Question: Is the Hawaiian Humane Society offering any pet sterilization specials this month?

Answer: The Hawaiian Humane Society is partnering with private veterinarians on Oahu through March 24 to help get as many cats sterilized as possible. Participating veterinarians are offering discounted rates for this period only to cat owners islandwide: $50 for females and $40 for males. Typically, the surgery can cost hundreds of dollars.

To take advantage of the limited-time discount, call one of these clinics: Cat-Bird Vet Mobile Clinic, 623-5466; Mililani Mauka Veterinary Clinic, 626-7600; the Cat Clinic, 732-8884; the Pet Doctor, 733-8828; VCA Kaneohe, 236-2414; or Makai Animal Clinic, 262-9621.

Cat overpopulation is a big challenge in Hawaii, where the climate encourages year-round breeding. It is estimated that an un-spayed feline and her offspring can produce as many as 420,000 cats in just seven years.

It's up to caring cat lovers to help reduce the population to prevent unwanted pregnancies. Fortunately, research shows that Oahu cat owners (81 percent) are more likely than dog owners (65 percent) to sterilize their pets.

Q: At what age is it safe to sterilize animals?

A: Getting a puppy or kitten fixed at anywhere from 8 to 16 weeks of age is now widely accepted. More than 10 years of research and published studies have endorsed early-age spaying and neutering, indicating that puppies and kittens suffer no medical or behavioral side effects. The American Veterinarian Medical Association also supports the procedure for young animals. Benefits of sterilization include reduced rates of certain cancers, no heat cycles and a reduced likelihood to spray or mark.