If your pet is not intended for breeding we recommend neutering.

DOGS:

Female – Removing the uterus and ovaries (spaying) is best performed either from 6 months before seasons have started, or between seasons (3 months after the last season). It prevents pyometra. This is a uterine infection and can be life threatening.

Spaying also hugely reduces the chances of mammary cancer; there is a 75% decrease in risk if she is spayed before her second season.

It prevents unwanted pregnancy and unwanted male attention.

If you want to discuss whether to neuter your pet please contact the practice for advice we are always happy to discuss the pros and cons.

Male – Removing the testicles reduces testosterone. This reduces roaming (looking for females) and hypersexuality such as leg humping or mounting other dogs. It can reduce dog to dog aggression. It reduces unwanted pregnancy in local female dogs. Dogs that are in close proximity to bitches in season will scale a 6 foot fence to get out!

Neutering does not change a dogs general nature. With proper management of diet and exercise there is no reason for a neutered dog to become overweight. A neutered dog will need approximately 1/3 less calories than an entire animal.

CATS:

Male cats tend to roam over very large distances. They frequently fight (increasing the risk of serious diseases like FeLV and FIV) and are more frequently involved in road traffic accidents due to roaming far from home. They often spray urine to mark territory. Neutering a male cat at 6 months will prevent these behaviours.

Female cats can produce up to 2-3 litters of kittens PER YEAR from fertile age of 5-6 months. If indoor and unneutered they will call for a male cat every few days in spring and summer. Spaying your cat prevents this.

Unless you are an experienced breeder and your cats are indoor only, PLEASE neuter your cats.

  • There are thousands of unwanted kittens every year due to owners breeding litters either intentionally or by accident.
  • Rescues are completely overrun.
  • Please consider VERY carefully before breeding from your own cat.

These operations are performed under general anaesthetic. Your pet will need to be starved from the night before, dropped off at the practice between 8:30 and 8.45 am and will return home at the end of the day.

Please contact us if you require advice.