Neutering
Many people are unsure whether they should get their pet neutered, and at what age. There are a number of pros and cons to the process but it is something that we would recommend for most animals. There are many points to consider when deciding whether to neuter your pet.
Of course neutering prevents unwanted pregnancies in bitches and queens, which reduces the number of unwanted pets. It also avoids the side-effects of contraceptive and misalliance drugs which can be used when your pet is in season. The use of these drugs to prevent pregnancy, are not always successful.
There are huge health benefits when you have your pet neutered, particularly in females. If your bitch is spayed before her first season the chance of her developing mammary tumours is negligible if she is spayed before her first season. It also prevents bitches (and queens) from developing a serious infection of the uterus called pyometra, which may require an emergency hysterectomy. In males castration can help guard against testicular and prostatic tumours and growths.
Castration of males also helps to reduce unwanted masculine behaviour such as spraying and fighting in tom cats, and reduces aggression and sexual behaviour in male dogs. It also prevents roaming in both dogs and cats.
As previously mentioned there are some drawbacks to consider and it should always be remembered that the surgery is an ‘elective’ procedure, and all anaesthetics carry some risk to the animal. A minority of bitches may develop urinary incontinence after their operation, particularly if spayed before their first season. This can require lifelong drug treatment. Another problem to consider is that animals can be more prone to weight gain once they are neutered.
Pets should be at least six months when they undergo their operation. Routinely, they will be in the practice just for the day, and many recover very quickly. Please bear in mind that, particularly for bitches, this is major surgery, and they should be strictly rested after their surgery.
To discuss any of these issues with a vet just give us a call at the surgery.