Make the Choice to Spay and Neuter Your Pets
Dogs and cats need attentive and early care in life to get the best possible start. Part of that early care includes spaying and neutering, which prevent unwanted pet pregnancies. But there is more to spaying and neutering than keeping stray animal populations down—at Cahaba Valley Animal Clinic, we also recommend it for its health benefits to your pet.
Is your pet ready to be spayed or neutered? Schedule a consult.
How Spaying and Neutering Impacts Health
Spaying and neutering dogs and cats can increase their lifespan. When a pet undergoes the procedure, their reproductive organs are removed, which limits the risk of diseases developing in those parts of the body later in life.
In females, these diseases include:
- Breast/mammary cancer
- Ovarian cancer
- Pyometra (infection of the uterus)
In males, these diseases include:
- Testicular cancer
- Prostate cancer
Non-spayed female dogs can be up to 200 times more likely to develop breast cancer compared to dogs spayed before their first heat cycle. Timing a spay is important: If your pet is spayed after their fifth heat cycle, they are just as likely to develop cancer as a dog that has not been spayed.
Additional Benefits of Spaying and Neutering
Other ways that spaying and neutering can give pets a better quality of life include:
- Reducing incidences of roaming and fights with other dogs/cats
- Preventing or minimizing the male tendency of marking territory with strong-smelling urine in the house
- Putting an end to loud vocalizations, such as caterwauling
- Stopping males from trying to mount other animals, furniture, or people
When to Spay and Neuter
For males and females alike, it is best to spay and neuter sooner rather than later. Consult with one of our veterinarians to find out when your pet is most likely to be ready. We want your pet to be healthy and happy before going into surgery. If you would like more information, please give us a call at (205) 980-0078!