Understanding Spay & Neuter Surgeries
If you are a fan of The Price is Right, you have likely heard the plea of the hosts at the end of each show about spaying or neutering your pet. The hosts say this iconic phrase because spaying and neutering pets help control the pet population. Hundreds of thousands of cats and dogs face euthanasia at kill shelters across the United States each year. The Melrose Vet in Los Angeles, CA, strives to educate new pet parents on the long-term benefits of spay and neuter surgery. Continue reading to understand what spaying and neutering are and how they can help your pet’s health.
What Is Spaying?
Spaying is the surgical removal of reproductive organs from a female animal. While this procedure typically involves taking the ovaries, uterus, and fallopian tubes out of an animal, sometimes your vet will only remove the ovaries. Spaying your pet can help curb or eliminate a variety of behavioral and health problems, including:
• Aggression
• Urinating in inappropriate places
• Eliminates heat cycle
• Howling or crying
• Trying to escape
• Reduces chances of mammary tumors
• Eliminates risk of uterine and ovarian cancer
• Lowers the risk of infection
• Eliminates complications from pregnancy and birth
• Extends the life of your pet
Your veterinarian near you will likely recommend spaying cats between 5-6 months. The timeframe for dogs will depend on their breed and size. Dogs under 50 pounds can get spayed around six months, while larger dogs should wait until they are between 12-15 months.
What Is Neutering?
Neutering is the surgical removal of a male animal's testicles. Your veterinarian will recommend this pet surgery for cats at around 5-6 months. Small dogs should get neutered between 6-12 months, while large dogs should get the procedure between 9-18 months. The behavioral and health benefits of neutering your pet include:
• Eliminates the risk of testicular cancer
• Reduces the risk of urinary tract infection
• Curbs spraying
• Reduces mounting
• Reduces fighting with other pets
• Stops pets from wandering
• Reduces risk of prostate cancer
• Pets become more affectionate
Each procedure takes an average of 20 minutes. However, your pet must spend several hours in recovery for monitoring as the anesthesia wears off. Most pets go home on the same day as the pet surgery. Your veterinarian near you can discuss your pet’s recovery timeline and provide post-op instructions to keep your pet healthy at home.
Contact The Melrose Vet in Los Angeles, CA, for Preventative Care Today
Spay and neuter surgeries are the best way to reduce pet overpopulation while enhancing your pet’s health and well-being, so contact The Melrose Vet in Los Angeles, CA, to schedule this preventative care today. Call us and schedule an appointment at (323) 310-5555 to ensure your pet lives a long, healthy life.