Neutering and Spaying

A massive overpopulation of cats and dogs means that approximately 3.7 million animals that live in shelters have to be euthanized each year due to a lack of willing adopters. This is a heart-breaking figure for any animal lover, and many responsible owners are now choosing to neuter or spay their pets to help prevent more animals from going without loving homes.

What exactly does neutering or spaying entail?

Neutering is the removal of testicles in male animals and spaying is the removal of the uterus and ovaries of females.

Aside from overpopulation, there are plenty of other reasons why you should consider neutering or spaying your pets, including a number of serious health benefits. Here are some examples of why we highly recommend this procedure for your pet.

• Neutering your male pet at 6 months or after will prevent them from developing testicular cancer. It will also reduce the risk of perianal tumors.

• Spaying your female cat or dog before their first heat will prevent uterine infections and breast cancer, which is fatal in 90% of cats and 50% of dogs.

• Male dogs in particular will go to extreme lengths to find a mate and have been known to dig under fences and escape properties. They also regularly get into fights with other dogs. Neutering removes most of this aggression and stops them from trying to run away.

• Female cats in heat can be very noisy and messy as they urinate much more often and aren’t too fussy about where they do it! With heat cycles lasting 4/5 days and occurring every 3 weeks during the breeding season, it can be a difficult time. Spayed female cats will not go into heat and so this problem will be eradicated.

• Un-neutered males also mark their territory by spraying urine and exhibit quite naughty behavior. Neutering them solves many early aggression problems, helps level their behavior, and brings their focus and attention on to their human families. Neutering can also help prevent unwanted behaviors.

• If you have more than one pet, spaying or neutering them can improve their overall temperament. Leading to a much higher chance that they will all get along.

• It shows children that bringing unwanted pets into the world without loving homes is irresponsible and cruel.

• Neutering or spaying will also benefit the community as it will reduce the number of animals on the streets, particularly strays who are known to destroy property, raid garbage, destroy wildlife, and cause accidents.

• Raising a litter of animals costing anything upwards of $200 per puppy/kitten for food and veterinary services prior to going to a new home. Neutering or spaying is a significantly cheaper – and easier – option!
  
  

How old does my pet need to be to be neutered/spayed?

Most animals can be neutered or spayed at 8 weeks to 6 months of age and it is almost always better to perform the procedure before they reach sexual maturity/come into their first heat. However, we will happily advise you should you have any questions or concerns.