What Is Spaying and Neutering?
Spaying and neutering are the female and male pet versions, respectively, of being sterilized. In females, the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and uterus are removed, and in males, the testes are removed. The animals are unable to be bred after this point. These surgeries are performed routinely at our hospital and are performed Monday through Friday.
Benefits of Spaying and Neutering
The biggest benefit of spaying and neutering is, of course, the end of the ability to breed. Both cats and dogs can have large litters, and kittens and puppies are often able to start breeding within just a few months of age, before they even turn one year old. In some cases, this can lead to unwanted pets and contribute to the pet overpopulation, with some animals often being left at shelters or abandoned.
Benefits of spaying can include:
- Minimizing risks of uterine, ovarian, and mammary cancers
- Eliminating the risks for a like threatening uterine infection (also known as a pyometra)
Benefits of neutering can include:
- Minimizing the risk of prostate cancer and eliminating the risk of testicular cancer
- Reduced risk of undesirable male behaviors such as mate-seeking, aggression, and marking
When You Should Get Your Pet Spayed or Neutered
There are no general recommendations for an exact timing for spaying and neutering, as the decision is based on multiple factors. It is always best to consult your veterinarian regarding the best timing for your individual pet.
Call Today to Arrange for a Spay & Neuter Procedure
If you would like to schedule an appointment to discuss spaying or neutering your pet, please call our office at (954) 523-8527, and we would be happy to help you.
