What are the benefits of castration?

Castration eliminates testicular cancer risk and reduces the risk of some prostate issues.

What are the benefits of spaying?

A female cat or dog’s risk of mammary cancer is very low if it is spayed before the first season, it also prevents diseases related to sexual activity, uterine infections, uterine cancers, unwanted or false pregnancies. After being spayed your pet will not have another season and this eliminates the risk of post season complications such as life threatening womb disease (eg pyometra) that can occur after a season. You will remove the hassle and hygiene caused by your pet coming into season, including the need to be kept housebound in some cases due to the unwanted attention from male dogs.

When should a pet be neutered?

Cats and rabbits can be neutered or spayed from four months. Dogs can be neutered from five to six months onwards dependant on breed, your vet will be able to advise you on this. You do not need to wait for females to have a litter of puppies/ kittens. Neutering can be performed before they come into season for the first time or if they have had a season we would recommend waiting three months to have them neutered prior to their next season.

Reproductive cycle: dogs

Female dogs are mature enough to reproduce when they reach six to nine months. They normally come into heat approximately every six months although this can vary. There can be some bleeding at the beginning of the cycle. The cycle may last a few days or weeks. Some female dogs may undergo a personality change such as anxiousness.

Post-operative care

Animals recover remarkably quickly and will usually be discharged on the same day as the operation. They will need to return to the surgery for postoperative checks and for stitches to be removed, but recovery usually takes just a few days to a week. Instructions specific to your pet will be given to you upon discharge regarding limiting exercise, nutrition and any pain relief to be administered at home.

Complications

• Anaesthetic/surgical risks (very low in young healthy animals).
• Wound infections which can also be caused by the pet licking or nibbling the wound area.
• Weight gain due to overfeeding as neutered animals need 10-15% less food (your veterinary nurse can advise you).