Spaying or neutering your pet is a routine procedure with lifelong health and behavioral benefits. In addition to helping reduce pet overpopulation, these surgeries can protect your pet from certain diseases and unwanted behaviors.
Benefits:
- Reduces the risk of cancers (mammary, uterine, testicular)
- Prevents life-threatening uterine infections (pyometra) in females
- Decreases aggressive, territorial, or roaming behaviors
- Helps curb overpopulation and unwanted litters
What is the difference between spaying and neutering?
- Spaying is the surgical removal of a female pet’s ovaries and uterus.
- Neutering is the surgical removal of a male pet’s testicles.
When should I get my pet spayed/neutered?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. The ideal timing for spaying or neutering depends on several factors, including:
- Your pet’s species and sex
- Breed and size
- Overall health and any pre-existing conditions
- Lifestyle (e.g., indoor vs. outdoor pets, multi-pet households)
Our veterinary team will perform a thorough pre-surgical exam and discuss your pet’s unique needs to help determine the best timing for the procedure. In most cases, spay/neuter is recommended between 5–12 months of age, but it can be safely performed on older pets as well.
Did you know…?
Many veterinarians will give patients an optional “tattoo” to indicate if they’ve been spayed or neutered. This marking is generally made as a short line with a brightly colored ink on the patient’s abdomen during surgery.
