If you own a dog or cat, it’s likely you’ve been told of the importance of spaying and neutering your pet (“fixing,” in layman’s terms). But do you actually know what the procedure involves and why it’s so important? Some basic information can get you started and encourage you to find a dog or cat spay and neuter clinic as soon as possible. Here why you should spay and neuter your pets:
The Spay and Neutering Procedures
Both spaying and neutering involve surgeries that remove pets’ reproductive animals so they can no longer breed, with the main goal of preventing pet overpopulation. Spaying, which is performed on female animals, is also known as a ovariohysterectomy. The ovaries, uterus and fallopian tubes are all removed. Neutering is castration, or the removal of a male animal’s testicles. These procedures should both be performed when the animal is at a certain age so as to prevent breeding without inhibiting the animal’s healthy development. You should talk to a vet about when to spay your dog to prevent pregnancy (or neuter, if it’s a him), since not all vets agree as to the ideal age.
Additional Health Advantages
Spaying and neutering can also prevent quite a few health problems associated with the reproductive organs, particularly for male animals. The risk of testicular cancers and other diseases are lowered, as are the risks of illnesses caused by high testosterone levels. Spaying female animals can greatly reduce the risk of breast cancer and completely eliminates the possibility of uterine infections and cancer.
Behavioral Benefits of Spaying and Neutering
Dogs and cats are also better behaved once they have been spayed or neutered. In females, the crying and nervousness that comes with being in heat is eliminated, and mess associated with their cycles is avoided. Males who have been neutered are less aggressive and less likely to hump or mark their territory with urine. It’s particularly important to spay and neuter in a household where there are multiple pets who could vie for dominance. If you’re worried about the cost, there are many affordable spay and neuter clinics to choose from; and remember, this is one expense that’s simply part of being a responsible pet owner.
Do you have any other information to share on the importance of spaying and neutering your pet? Add facts or tips on choosing a spay and neuter clinic in the comments.