The Importance of Spay & Neutering Dogs & Cats
In Los Angeles and other big cities, stray cats and dogs often mate with their kin causing over population to occur in dangerous areas. Spaying and neutering helps keep the stray population from breeding and having baby kittens or puppies who are stuck living on the streets without proper food, shelter, water, or vet care.
The decision to have your pet spay or neutered is one of the most important decisions you can make as a per parent. It is also the best decision you can make for their well being.
14 Reasons Why You Should Spay/Neuter Your Dog, Cat, and even Your Rabbit
- Spay and neutering will help your dog or cat live longer and overall a healthier life.
- For female dogs and cats spaying helps to prevent uterine infections and some forms of cancer.
- It also helps to spay your dog or cat prior to going into heat for the first time.
- However, spaying them anytime in your pet’s lifetime, is better than not spaying them at all because of health risks.
- For male dogs and cats, neutering has health benefits such as preventing testicular cancer, while rare in male cats, testicular tumors are most commonly found in none-neutered male dogs.
- A very important reason for spay and neutering your cat or dog to prevent over population of animals.
- In the United States, for every human born, there are 7 puppies and kittens born. The reality is there aren’t enough homes for these animals. Spaying and neutering is the best form of population control to prevent homeless animals.
- By not spaying or neutering, as your pet starts to age, they can also develop different forms of cancer, which can be expensive to treat, and painful for the animal. An investment into spaying or neutering early in your pet’s life can save on expensive vet bills.
- Licensing fees for un-altered pets are much higher than spayed or neutered pets.
- Spaying and neutering can help with behavior problems, both in cats and dogs. After spaying and neutering, your pet will be less aggressive, and stop marking their territory with urine.
- Your animal will be less likely to run away from home.
- Your pet will be less likely to fight with other males.
- Your pet will be less likely to bark or cry excessively.
- Spaying and neutering will decrease the urge for your pet to try and mate.
Guideline for When to Spay & Neuter Your Pet
When to Neuter Your Male Cat
- Male cats are best to neuter between 6 and 9 months old.
When to Spay Your Female Cat
- Female cats are best to spay before becoming 5 months of age.
When to Neuter Your Male Dog
- Male dogs are best to neuter between 6 and 9 months old.
When to Spay Your Female Dog
- Female dogs should ideally be spayed before their first heat, which usually happens between 6 and 9 months old.
Always Consult Your Vet
When getting a new puppy or kitten, consult your vet for the best recommendations based on your pet’s individual health needs.
