Spay & Neuter

A compassionate and healthy choice.

The best way that we can control the unwanted pet population is through spaying and neutering. Even if you keep your pet confined and spaying and neutering may seem unnecessary, there are many other health benefits that make this procedure so important. It is our recommendation at Narcoossee Oaks Animal Hospital that all dogs and cats not intended for breeding programs be neutered or spayed at the appropriate time.

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What does it Mean to Spay or Neuter Your Dog or Cat?

The spaying procedure in female dogs and cats involves the removal of both ovaries and the uterus. Since the ovaries have been removed, your pet will no longer “come into heat”. Spaying prior to 14 months of age will greatly reduce the chances of breast tumors, the most common cancer in the older, unspayed female. The intact female may also be plagued with cystic ovaries, false pregnancies, hormonal disorders, and uterine infections. While it is usually best to spay cats and small dogs between 5-8 months of age, medium and large breed dogs are best spayed between a year and 14 months of age as they mature later and benefit from a slightly longer time with active hormones. After 14 months of age, these benefits no longer exist.

The neutering procedure in male dogs and cats involves the removal of the testicles. Once the surgery has been performed, many undesirable sexual behavior traits may be avoided (humping, spraying, fighting, etc.). Many prostate gland diseases as well as perianal and testicular tumors are essentially prevented through neutering. Roaming behavior (to establish territory or find a mate) is generally reduced. In general, the animal becomes a much better pet. The same ages that are ideal for spaying females also apply to neutering males.

What You Need to Know About Spay and Neuter Surgeries

Most pets undergoing a spay or neuter procedure go home the same day of surgery. We recommend using our surgical laser for the procedure as it helps to decrease the healing time and by sealing the smaller nerve endings, there is less pain in the recovery period. Activity will need to be decreased for two week after the surgery, including keeping the pet as quiet as possible. Complications after a spay or neuter are extremely rare.

If your pet is scheduled for a spay or neuter, needs to be spayed or neutered, or has recently been spayed or neutered, the Narcoossee Oaks Animal Hospital team is always here to answer your questions and address your concerns. Please contact us and we will be happy to help!