Information on Spaying & Neutering

There are a great number of benefits to spaying and neutering pets. With few potentially negative effects and numerous positive effects, the decision to spay or neuter is often an easy one.

  1. Definition

    • Spaying is an abdominal surgery that removes a female animal's reproductive organs, specifically the ovaries and sometimes the uterus. Neutering is a surgical procedure that removes a male animal's reproductive organs, specifically the testes.

    When to Spay or Neuter a Pet

    • The conventional age for a male or female animal to undergo this surgery is six months. According to the American Humane Association, a cat or dog can be spayed as early as six weeks of age.

    Pet Overpopulation

    • As of 2010, America is facing a long-term problem of pet overpopulation. This strains the economy, communities, shelters and those who care for stray or unwanted cats and dogs. Spaying and neutering pets prevents unwanted litters.

    Health Benefits

    • Spaying female pets reduces the risk of some types of cancer and completely prevents uterine infections. Neutering your pet will help reduce his chances of getting prostate disease and will eliminate his chances of getting testicular cancer.

    Behavioral Changes

    • Most notably, a female animal that has been spayed will no longer have a heat cycle. This cycle is characterized by uterine bleeding and aggression in female dogs and by yowling and other unpleasant actions in female cats. Neutering your male dog or cat will dissuade him from marking or spraying his territory. He will not be on the prowl for a mate so he will be less aggressive and less likely to roam.

    Affordable Spay and Neuter

    • Many programs, such as that offered by Friends of Animals, offer low-cost spay and neuter surgeries.