As pet pawrents, the terms “spay” and “neuter” must be familiar to you. Did you know? There is evidence suggesting that neutered pets typically enjoy longer, healthier lives compared to those who are not neutered. In addition to the health benefits, this procedure plays a significant role in saving the lives of homeless animals. It directly prevents accidental litters and subsequently lowers the number of pets entering shelters.
What is Spaying and Neutering?
Both spaying and neutering are surgical procedures performed by veterinarians to sterilise pets, preventing them from reproducing.
Spaying refers to removal of a female animal’s ovaries and uterus while neutering refers to the removal of a male animal’s testicles.
The Benefits of Sterilisation
Spaying and neutering pets provide a multitude of benefits, covering aspects such as health, behaviour and population control. Here are a couple of good reasons to get your pet sterilised:
- Eliminates the risk of ovarian and testicular cancer
- Reduces the risk of mammary gland tumours and/or uterine cancer, especially if it's done before the female's first heat cycle
- Pets who have been spayed or neutered have been shown to lead longer, healthier lives
- Eliminates desire to spray or mark territory
- Prevents breeding instincts like the desire to roam, which will help keep your pet safely out of the streets
- Curbs behavioural issues that are associated with mating instincts, such as roaming, marking and aggression
- Promotes a balanced temperament
- Combats pet overpopulation by avoiding unplanned litters
- Eases the strain on shelters and reduces the number of homeless animals
Ultimately, these procedures not only enhance the individual well-being of pets but also promote responsible pet ownership and a more humane pet community.
When should my pets be spayed or neutered?
Unfortunately, there is no universal timeline that fits all pets. The optimal timing for spaying or neutering is influenced by several factors unique to your pet including breed, size and individual health. Consulting with a veterinarian is crucial in determining the most suitable timing for your pet.
Dogs
As a general guideline, it is recommended for small breed dogs to be sterilised at 6 months of age. However, for larger breeds, an ideal range would be between 9 to 15 months of age or after they have reached maturity and their growth has ceased. While early sterilisation is preferred, an older dog can be sterilised too. However, do note that senior dogs will require more care prior, during and after the procedure to ensure its utmost safety.
Cats
Kittens are often spayed or neutered at a relatively young age, typically by 5 months of age. Some veterinarians may recommend early-age spaying or neutering, even as early as 8 weeks, particularly for shelter or rescue kittens. This acts as a preventive measure against accidental litters.
It is worth noting that the earlier these procedures are performed, the smoother the surgeries usually are for the veterinarian and recovery for your pets.
Caring For Your Pet After The Surgery
Following the procedure, your pet will need time and extra attention to ensure that their body properly heals. As pet owners, there is a lot we can do to make their recovery smoother and comfortable. Here are some general tips:
- Prior to the day of surgery, purchase an Elizabethan collar. This will help to prevent your pets from picking at its incision, which can hinder the healing process.
- Avoid strenuous exercise or rough play for a couple of days to allow for proper healing.
- Monitor the incision site for any redness, swelling or discharge. Be sure to contact your veterinarian immediately if you do notice any concerning changes.
- Keep the incision dry and clean. Avoid contact with water at least 10-14, or as recommended by your veterinarian.
- Be sure to follow your veterinarian instructions for any post-op care if any.
Overall, spaying and neutering your pet offers a myriad of benefits that encompass health, behaviour, and population control. The decision to spay or neuter your pet carries significant weight within the pet community, creating a ripple effect of positive change. Let’s proactively work towards creating healthier and happier lives for our furry friends while making a positive impact on the pet community!
