To keep your pet as healthy as possible throughout their life, North Jersey Animal Hospital recommends spay and neuter surgery for a majority of dogs and cats. For most pets, we can perform the procedure when they are between six and eight months old, but the age can vary depending on the pet’s breed, size, and overall condition. Some large and extra-large dog breeds benefit from waiting longer, until they are 12 months of age or a little older. Before we schedule your pet’s spay/neuter surgery, your veterinarian will be happy to answer all your questions and help you prepare for your pet’s post-op recovery at home.
The Benefits of Spaying & Neutering Dogs and Cats
Spay and neuter surgery benefits animals, and the greater community, in several important ways.
Elimination of heat cycles
Female cats and dogs typically go through their first heat cycle around the age of six to seven months, although it is possible for it to occur as early as four months or as late as twelve months. When animals go into heat, they often become very uncomfortable, seek attention, and attract male dogs and cats in the area. It can be a lengthy process and requires additional clean-up and care from pet owners. By spaying your female dog or cat, heat cycles are eliminated completely.
Reduction in Destructive Behaviors
The progression of testosterone and other male hormones can cause male dogs and cats to develop aggressive, unwanted behaviors. Neutering your male pet can reduce some of these destructive and territorial behaviors, which include spraying, mounting, and roaming in search of females in heat.
Overpopulation & Homelessness
There are approximately 6.5 million dogs and cats in shelters, and roughly 1.5 million are euthanized every year. Animal shelters in Wayne, NJ and the surrounding areas are often overpopulated and do not have the capacity take in more homeless pets. Spay and neuter procedures prevent pets from reproducing, avoiding pregnancy and the births of new litters. By making the decision to spay or neuter your pet, you are actively avoiding contribution to the overpopulation issue and helping to save more shelter animal lives.
Healthier Pets
Altering a pet via spay or neuter can greatly reduce a pet’s risk for certain diseases. In females, illnesses such as pyometra, fatal uterine infections, and mammary cancer can be prevented with spaying. In males, neutering eliminates the risk of testicular cancer and greatly reduces the risk of prostate cancer.
If you have any questions regarding your pet and their spay/neuter surgery, feel free to call us at any time to consult with your veterinarian.
