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Some facts about some common misconceptions related to spaying and neutering:
-Female dogs and cats do not have to come into heat or have a litter before getting spayed (which is surgically removing the ovaries and uterus). In fact, each heat cycle increases the health risks.
-Female dogs and cats do not have to be 6 months old to get spayed. As long as the pet is healthy and at least 3 months old anesthesia and surgery should be safe if the patient is properly monitored. Since cats can come into heat as young as 5 months old it is often suggested to spay them before that age to prevent both living with a cat howling all day as well as to prevent unwanted pregnancies.
-It does make a difference if your dog or cat is in heat when it is spayed. The surgery does not remove the hormones that are already in the bloodstream. If your pet is spayed in heat, males will still be attracted to her. Therefore, please ensure your pet is kept inside and always under your control for a week after surgery.
-Neutering a male dog or cat does not make him a wimp or a sissy. Neutering only will change those behaviors which are related to testosterone. Neutering should make your dog or cat less interested in roaming (if he is roaming to find a female). If your pet just likes to run away and play with the neighbors pets, then neutering will not guarantee your pet will stay at home! Neutering may also decrease fighting and aggression and territorial behavior. If your dog barks when a stranger comes up the driveway, neutering will not change this warning behavior.
-There are few good reasons to not spay or neuter a dog or cat unless it is a show animal or you are a quality breeder with a pet with a proven pedigree. If you need more information on spaying and neutering please call for a consultation.
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