The Benefits of Spay and Neuter for Dogs and Cats

The choice to spay or neuter your pet is a crucial decision that all pet owners have to make. Spaying and neutering are surgical procedures that remove the reproductive organs of pets. Spaying entails the removal of a female pet's ovaries and uterus. While neutering entails removing the male pet's testicles.

Your veterinarian can perform these procedures on cats starting at twelve weeks of age and at six months of age in dogs. But why spay or neuter your pet?

Prevents Unwanted Litters

Unfortunately, overpopulation is an ongoing challenge in the United States. Statistics show that dogs are 15 times as prolific, and cats are 45 times as prolific as humans. One of the biggest factors contributing to overpopulation is allowing dogs and cats to reproduce and not being able to find homes for the offspring. Sadly, this situation has left humans no choice but to mitigate the situation through humane euthanasia. Spaying or neutering your furry friend is an excellent way to help control the pet population and ensures they all get to enjoy good homes and pet owners.

Reduces the Risk of Certain Diseases

Spaying and neutering can reduce the risk of certain diseases in pets. Spaying can reduce the risk of mammary gland tumors and uterine infections in female pets. Neutering can reduce the risk of testicular cancer and prostate problems in male pets.

Promotes Hygiene

Did you know that female dogs pass a bloody fluid twice a year for about ten days? This is typically part of their estrous (heat) cycle. Extra hygienic care should be taken during this time to avoid infections and carpet stains. A spayed dog does not pose this problem.

Improves Behavior

Another benefit of spaying and neutering is improved behavior in pets. Neutered male pets are less likely to engage in behaviors like marking, aggression, and roaming. Spayed female pets are less likely to experience mood swings, excessive vocalization, and other behaviors associated with their heat cycle.

It Is Cost-effective

Overall, spaying or neutering your animal companion is cost-effective. Caring for a litter of puppies or kittens is costly. If you include the cost of veterinary care and food, it can quickly add up. The best way to prevent unwanted litter is through spay and neuter. Furthermore, some uterine infections can lead to more serious health complications that result in costly emergencies, which can be avoided through spaying.

Conclusion

Neutering and spaying prevents unwanted litter, reduces the risk of certain diseases, and improves behavior. Your spayed or neutered furry companion no longer has the urge to roam out of their home in search of a mate.

They will stay at home, reducing their chances of traumatic accidents, like being hit by a vehicle. They also get into fewer fights and are at a lower risk of contracting diseases. They decrease issues with sexual and territorial aggression. As you can see, spaying or neutering your pet companion is a big plus for them and you.

For more information on the benefits of early spaying and neutering for dogs and cats, visit the Animal Care Center of Aurora at our office in Aurora, Colorado. Call (303) 693-6640 to book an appointment today.