Choosing to neuter your pet
Deciding to neuter your pet is a personal choice. If you aren't planning to breed from your pet, neutering is recommended for several reasons. Neutering prevents unwanted pregnancies, reduces unwanted and aggressive behaviour, and lowers the risk of some illnesses. If you're undecided about whether neutering your dog or spaying your cat is right for you and your pet, talk to a member of our team today.
What is neutering?
Neutering involves the removal of your pet's reproductive organs. For male pets, this is called castration and involves removing the testicles. For females, it's called spaying. This involves removing the ovaries and, in many cases, the uterus. You should discuss the timing of neutering with your vet to ensure the best outcome for your pet's health. This is particularly important for rabbits, as their neutering process can be more complex.
Benefits of neutering dogs, cats, rabbits, and other pets
Prevent unwanted pregnancies
Neutering stops unwanted pregnancies, which means fewer unwanted animals overall. Millions of animals are left in shelters every year, and many are put to sleep due to a lack of resources to care for them all.
Pet owners are often surprised that siblings can and will often mate, which can result in offspring with deformities or birth defects. Neutering can also prevent false pregnancies, which may be distressing for your pet.
Prevent stressful seasons
When your pet is in season, it can be stressful for both males and females. Females may become moody and protective, while males can become aggressive and will do anything to find a mate. They often put themselves in danger by crossing busy roads or getting lost. Understanding how long a dog's season lasts can help you prepare for these challenging times.
Seasons generally happen twice a year and can be messy. Female pets may bleed for up to three weeks, and walking them can be difficult due to unwanted attention from male dogs who can sense they're in heat. Neutering not only prevents these seasons but also eliminates the risk of phantom pregnancies in dogs, which can be distressing for both the pet and the owner.
Reduce the risk of some illnesses
Neutering significantly reduces the risk of pyometra (a severe uterine infection) and mammary cancer in female pets, both of which are common in intact animals. Pyometra in cats can be particularly dangerous if left untreated, and womb infections in dogs are equally serious. In male pets, castration eliminates the risk of testicular cancer and can help reduce prostate problems. However, for larger dog breeds, neutering too early can increase the risk of certain joint disorders, so it's important to speak to your vet on the best timing for your pet.
Reduce urine marking and roaming
Neutered male dogs are less likely to mark their territory with urine and are also less likely to wander off alone. Male cats, especially when neutered before adulthood, are also less likely to spray. This can significantly improve your pet's behavior and reduce unwanted habits.
Less aggressive, friendlier pets
After neutering, male pets often display less sexual behaviour, such as humping, and are less likely to be aggressive when sensing a female in season. However, the impact of neutering on behaviour can vary. Neutering female pets often helps them become calmer and more relaxed. Female cats, in particular, tend to be friendlier and more loving after being neutered. However, it may not drastically change other aggressive tendencies, and in some cases, neutering can make certain behaviours worse if other factors, such as fear or anxiety, are contributing.
Other considerations
Neutering your pet can also lead to increased food-seeking behaviours and a higher risk of obesity, so it's important to monitor their diet and weight closely after surgery. This can be managed with a proper diet and regular exercise, but it's another issue worth discussing with your vet. Understanding what a healthy weight looks like for your dog or how heavy your cat should be is crucial for maintaining their overall health post-neutering.