At what age should spay and neuter procedures be done on kittens and puppies? We are often asked this question by new pet owners who aren’t sure when to bring their pets in for that first big procedure. While there are standard guidelines for spay and neuter surgeries, it’s always best to speak to a veterinarian about your pet’s particular needs.
For most puppies, it is recommended that spay and neuter takes place between six to nine months. If you adopt an adult dog or have an adult dog that hasn’t been spayed or neutered, it’s not too late. However the older a dog is when spay and neuter takes place, there is an increase in potential post-operative complications. This is also true if the dog is overweight or has other health problems.
Having your pet spayed or neutered is an important step in your pet’s life. There are many benefits for both spaying and neutering including:
- Less interest in roaming away from home so reduced injuries due to fights or run in with cars
- Reduces the number of unwanted pets
- Risk of mammary gland tumors, ovarian and/or uterine cancer is reduced
- No heat cycles in females
- Decreases aggressive behavior, including dog bites
- Risk of testicular cancer is eliminated, and decreases incidence of prostate disease
Overall, having your pet spayed or neutered can help them live longer and healthier lives. Reports have shown that sterilization of your dog can increase its life an average of one to three years. For cats it is an approximate three to five years.
Of course, if you plan to breed your pet, but are wondering about spay and neuter options for later, you should definitely discuss these plans with your veterinarian.
If you have any questions about whether to spay or neuter your pet, contact our caring team at East Valley Animal Hospital. Our goal is provide helpful information and expert care for your furry family members. Their health and well-being is as important to us as it is to you.
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