Spaying and Neutering

Spaying and neutering is a common veterinary procedure for pets, due to the ever growing need to control the pet population. Since cats and dogs have the ability to produce several litters every year, the need for such a procedure is crucial. A major factor in the over population problem is the number of stray dogs and cats that reproduce every year. Many unwanted stray pets are captured, placed in pounds, and often destructed. The maintenance of stray pets cost tax payers millions of dollars each year, so eliminating the reproduction rate will be beneficial to everyone. By spaying and neutering our domestic pets, we can at least put a stop to some of the population increase.

Spaying involves the removal of a female animal’s ovaries, fallopian tubes, and uterus. The entire reproductive system is usually removed in order to prevent breast cancer and reproductive urges.

Advantages to spaying include an inability to develop ovarian or uterus tumors and cancer, decreased stress levels (resulting in greater susceptibility to diseases), and no false pregnancies. Male animals are also less likely to approach a spayed female.

In a neutering procedure the male animal’s testicles are removed. Contrary to popular belief, the animal’s genital area will not change in appearance. A male animal will have a greater change in behavior after the procedure as opposed to a female. He will likely become less violent and aggressive with other dogs and will enjoy spending more time at home. He may also become temporarily less responsive to his owner, stop eating, or get depressed for a period of time following the procedure.

Benefits of neutering include a decrease in aggression and territoriality, less wandering, less humping inanimate objects or other animals, elimination of developing cancer and tumors, and decreased stress levels (leading to increased susceptibility to diseases).

Many pet owners believe that spaying and neutering their pets soon after birth could be hazardous to the pet’s health. Luckily, technological advancements make the procedures safe at any age. Pets can have the procedures done as young as 6 weeks old. Spaying pets before they have their first heat cycle will reduce their chances of developing breast cancer. Spaying or neutering your pet could in fact prolong their overall lifespan. To find out how early to have your pet spayed or neutered, contact your veterinarian.

The actual operation is done while the pet is under anesthesia and is relatively pain free. Some discomfort may ensue after the surgery is completed; however, this can be treated with simple medication. Recovery time for pets will last only a few days, and your pet will soon be themselves again.

For more information on spaying and neutering, contact a veterinarian in your area.