We hear a lot about spaying and neutering, more commonly called getting your pet "fixed". But what exactly is the difference between the two procedures? Today, our vets in Deer Park discuss the details of having your dog or cat spayed or neutered, including what you can expect from the procedure, the benefits of the surgery, as well as when you should have it done.
Having Your Pet Spayed or Neutered
Each year, millions of animals enter the shelter system, with only a fraction ever getting adopted out.
Having your pet spayed or neutered is the best way to help lower the overall amount of unplanned puppies and kittens every year, and reduce the overwhelming number of animals in shelters and rescues. Also, this surgical procedure can help improve your pet's behavior, and lowers their risk of developing several serious health problems.
The Difference Between Spay and Neuter
First, we need to establish what 'fixing your pet' means. ‘Fixing’ is a popular word used to describe spaying or neutering a cat or dog.
Spaying Female Dogs and Cats
When a veterinarian spays a female dog or cat they are performing either an ovariectomy (to remove only the ovaries) or an ovariohysterectomy (to remove both uterus and ovaries).
After the vet has spayed your female pet, her heat cycle will be eliminated and she won't be able to have babies.
Neutering Male Dogs and Cats
Neutering can also be called castration and it is when a veterinarian removes both testicles, as well as the associated structures. Your neutered dog will not be able to reproduce.
There are also alternative options available for male dogs including vasectomies (where the tubes that conduct sperm from the testes are severed) however, veterinarians and veterinary surgeons in Deer Park don't usually perform these procedures.
The Benefits of Having Your Pet Spayed or Neutered
On top of drastically lowering the risk of unwanted babies, there are lots of benefits to consider for spaying or neutering your pet.
By spaying your female dog or cat, you can prevent a range of serious health conditions such as mammary cancer and pyometra (a potentially life-threatening uterine infection).
By neutering your male fur-baby, you can help prevent him from developing testicular cancer, as well as cutting back on undesirable behaviors such as humping (generally - depending on the age of your pet and other factors), and behavioral problems including aggression and straying. This helps keep your pet from encountering tragedies like getting into fights with other animals or being hit by a car. A male cat is also likely to "spray" their territory if left unaltered, and this is a behaviour most pet parents want to avoid.
When You Should Spay or Neuter Your Pet
There are various factors you’ll have to consider when determining the right time to have your pet spayed or neutered.
But, both procedures can be conducted on kittens young as a few months old. Traditionally, kittens are fixed when they are between four and six months old, but can be spayed/neutered at any age.
A dog’s breed and living situation can make a difference in when you should neuter or spay them. Larger dogs often mature a little slower than smaller pups.
Adopting a male and female from the same age range? Have them spayed and neutered earlier before the female starts having heat cycles.
Adult size is an important factor for male dogs. While small and medium male dogs can generally be neutered earlier (at about six months old), if you have a giant breed puppy your vet might suggest waiting until they mature and are a year old or older before having them neutered.
Most vets will suggest having your female dog spayed before she enters her first heat cycle to significantly lower her risk for developing dog breast (mammary) cancer. Though this timeline varies, It usually happens when they are between five and ten months of age.
Ask your vet about when the best time would be to have your dog spayed or neutered. No matter when you choose to have the procedure done, make sure your dog gets a complete physical exam (your vet might order blood work if it's needed) before the procedure to ensure your pup does not have any existing health issues.
Discuss your dog’s full medical history with your vet, including current prescription medications or underlying conditions such as heart murmurs, kidney or liver issues that might need further investigation.
The Risks of Having Your Pet Spayed or Neutered
Spaying and neutering are common surgical procedures for pets in Deer Park, but they need to be performed by a qualified surgeon or veterinarian, as some degree of risk is involved with any veterinary surgery requiring general anesthesia.
However, the advantages of spaying or neutering a cat or dog will outweigh the disadvantages or risks in most cases.
What You Can Expect From the Surgery Recovery Process
If it's needed, your vet can recommend pain management techniques and prescribe pain medication for your pooch. Even if your dog or cat is recovering well and feeling playful, do not let them run around before they are actually healed.
You can help ensure your pet has a comfortable, safe recovery from a spaying or neutering procedure by taking some of these precautions:
- Check their incision daily to ensure it’s healing correctly. If you notice swelling, discharge, redness, or a foul odor, contact your vet immediately as this could be a sign of infection.
- Also contact your vet if your pet seems lethargic, uncomfortable, has a reduced or non-existent appetite, has diarrhea, or is vomiting more than 24 hours post-op.
- Have your pet wear a cone (commonly known as a “cone of shame”) or another accessory that can help keep them from licking their incision site, which could cause infection.
- For up to two weeks after surgery (or as long as your vet advises), prevent your pet from running around or jumping.
- Keep your pet inside, away from other animals as they recover.
- Refrain from bathing your dog for at least 10 days following surgery.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.