At Pinecrest Veterinary Clinic, when we spay and neuter animals we know what a difference it can make. These routine, outpatient procedures prevent everything from unwanted litters to reproductive cancers, and they can be performed in a single morning or afternoon. That’s why we strongly recommend a spay or neuter procedure for every patient, including any puppies, kittens, dogs, or cats who still have their reproductive organs.
What Do We Mean by Spay and Neuter?
So, what exactly happens when a pet is spayed or neutered? During a sterilization procedure, a vet removes the pet’s internal reproductive organs. Spaying is the procedure that removes the ovaries and uterus from a female cat or dog, while neutering involves the removal of the testicles from a male pet. While neutering is less invasive than spaying, both are common surgical procedures that permanently prevent pets from reproducing, and both tend to require minimal recovery time. We send patients home with pain medications if necessary, and we also give pre-op instructions to minimize risks as much as possible.
Benefits of Spay and Neuter Procedures
Overpopulation isn’t the only reason to spay or neuter your pet. Your pet will also enjoy many health and behavioral benefits, because they no longer have certain organs or urges associated with mating. Some of the most important benefits of spaying and neutering include:
- Decreased (or eliminated) risk of reproductive cancer
- Decreased chance of urinary tract infections (especially for male animals)
- No unwanted litters
- Decreased chance of territorial aggression
- No more heat cycles for female dogs and cats
- Decreased chance of urinating/marking indoors
- No urge to escape or wander and find a mate
- Emit different odors (no attracting intact strays)
When Should You Get Your Pet Fixed?
If your puppy or kitten is old enough to get fixed, act now. Behavioral problems are less likely to develop if a dog or cat never enters puberty, and the health benefits of sterilization are also greater. The right age for surgery might be eight weeks to four months, depending on your veterinarian’s recommendations and your pet’s weight and health. Of course, even if your dog or cat has already reached sexual maturity, it’s never too late to ask about spaying or neutering.
Schedule an Appointment for Spay and Neuter Procedures With Us
Is your dog or cat still intact? Their health and happiness could benefit from a routine procedure to prevent reproduction. Schedule a wellness exam now, and our veterinarian will help you decide whether surgery’s a good fit for your pet. Call (423) 926-6091 today to make an appointment at Pinecrest Veterinary Clinic.
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