Most veterinarians concur on the importance of having your pet spayed (female) or neutered (male) before complications develop, and most pet owners happily agree. This is despite the fact that very few pet owners know exactly why it’s the leading recommendation among veterinarians. The important information in this article can help you commit to a decision in situations where you have to make one for yourself. (I.E. Buying from a Breeder VS Adopting from a Humane Society)
It can sometimes be scary to think about having your cat or dog ‘fixed’ when there really isn’t something ‘wrong’. We’re here to help eliminate some of that fear and confusion, so you can make a more informed and relaxed decision.
Below are our top 5 Reasons to Spay/Neuter Your Pet:
1. Spaying your female pet helps prevent infections in the uterus, as well as preventing certain types of malignant breast cancers. Neutering your male pet is just as important as it helps prevent prostate complications and testicular cancer later on in their lives.
2. While it may be adorable to see a litter of kittens or puppies, few owners are ready for what the pregnancy and birthing process actually entails. Coupled with the fact that animals are frequently surrendered to local humane societies by overwhelmed new owners- finding a forever home for your new fur babies can be quite the challenge. With the growing population of homeless animals in America, it’s much better to be a part of the solution than the cause!
3. Both your male and female pets will be less likely to escape from their homes and follow scents left by their counterparts to breed if you spay/neuter them. Did you know that male dogs can smell a female dog in heat from a mile away! Talk about following your nose..
4. Your dog or cat may begin ‘marking’ their territory if not spay or neutered. This is a behavior that if done often enough by the animal before spaying/neutering, may not fully go away afterward. Early prevention is key- let’s not forget that your pets ‘territory’ is more than likely your living room walls and couch!
5. Neutering your male pet also helps decrease the incidence of aggressive behavior throughout adulthood. In females, spaying can alleviate worries of behavioral changes due to false pregnancies. A false pregnancy is when a female animal displays maternal/mothering behavior combined with the physical signs of pregnancy, despite a pregnancy actually occurring. The driving force behind several behavioral issues in your pet is its hormones, which can be reduced and sometimes eliminated by spaying or neutering.
These are only some of the most important reasons to speak to your veterinarian about why spaying/neutering might be the best decision for you!
At Packanack Animal Hospital we strive to maintain and increase the quality of life in your pets as well as the happiness shared between you and your pet. After all- when our animals are happy, we are happy- vice versa!
If you are still having trouble deciding if spaying or neutering is right for your pet, we want you to know that we believe in being transparent and open with our clients so you can weigh all of your options! Please give us a call, our veterinarians and technicians are here to help answer any question you may have and try to alleviate any fears that come up. Contact us today!