Also known as neutering, desexing is a common surgical procedure performed daily by veterinarians to remove an animal's reproductive organs or ability. Often referred to as a neuter or spay, in males the typical procedure is called castration, and in females, it is spaying.
Neutered dogs and cats will not go on heat, have periods or the desire to mate, nor become pregnant.
Castrating males involves the removal of the testicles, whilst spaying females involves the removal of the ovaries or ovaries and uterus.
Surgery for females is more complex so it requires a longer anesthetic and longer surgery time. For this reason, recovery from surgery is generally slower for females than for males. Once at home, you will need to look out for signs of infection after neutering and for the first night keep them quiet and prevent them from playing, climbing stairs, and running. Most are back to normal within 24 hours of surgery.
It is likely female cats, female and male dogs will need to wear a cone after neutering to prevent them from pulling out their stitches. How long they should wear the cone for will depend on their temperament, but usually at least a week. Stitches are then removed 10-14 days after surgery.
Desexing before puberty is usually recommended for both cats and dogs. It is ideal to have females spayed before her first heat cycle, at 5 to 6 months of age. For males, it can be done as soon as the testicles descend into the scrotum, usually 4 to 6 months of age.
Many kittens and puppies from rescue shelters are neutered at an earlier age, prior to being adopted.
For some dogs, the best age for neutering may depend on other factors such as breed, genetic predisposition, or body size. Some breeds like Labradors, Golden Retreivers, Rottweilers, desexing after puberty (first heat) may have some benefits. Please discuss with us what is right for your dog.
An unwanted pregnancy and resulting kittens and puppies to care for, and find homes for, are obvious signs. Also, overly aggressive dogs or wandering cats can be calmed down and benefit from desexing.
What are the behavioural benefits of spaying a cat? How does neutering affect a male dog? There are many health and welfare benefits of desexing cats and dogs including:
As with any surgical procedure, there are risks. Whilst low, these may include anaesthetic complications, infection, or bleeding. Other cons against desexing include:
The pros and cons of desexing cats and dogs can be debated, but the overwhelming pros of birth control and behaviour improvements outweigh any potential cons.
Please contact us to discuss desexing your pet to understand the cost, benefits, and risks.
Disclaimer: This is general information only. It is not intended as medical or health advice and should not be relied on as a substitute for consultation with a qualified healthcare professional who understands your pet's individual needs.
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