You have likely seen it all over your social media “free to good home” or seen local shelters saying they are overrun with kittens and puppies. This is the reality of animals not being spayed and neutered, especially stray animals. During Pet Appreciation Week from June 4-10, we’re shedding some light on the importance of spaying and neutering pets. Keep reading to learn more about why this is important for your pet.
What is the difference between spaying and neutering?
Spaying and neutering are essentially the same thing; they are sterilization procedures to prevent your pet from being able to breed. Spaying for females involves removing the uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes. There are alternatives that allow for only the ovaries or just the ovaries and fallopian tubes. Neutering for males involves removing the testes, and the alternative is removing only the vas deferens.
What are the risks?
As with any major surgery, there are risks with anesthesia and recovery, but as this is one of the most common animal surgeries, the risks are very low. However, with spaying and neutering, there is a potential for increased health issues over time, such as urinary incontinence. You will want to weigh out benefits vs risks with your veterinarian.
What are the benefits?
One of the biggest benefits of spaying and neutering your pets is avoiding unwanted puppies and kittens and overpopulation. However, for many the advantage of this procedure is stopping heat cycles, mating behaviors like spraying or running away from home, and aggressive behaviors. The long term-benefit of this surgery is protecting your animal from serious and costly problems such as breast and testicular cancer, uterine infections, or enlarged prostates. Of course, making sure your pet has their annual well-check is important to catch any health issues early on.
Contact your veterinarian today to learn more about your pet’s options for spaying and neutering.