Neutering of pets, specifically termed spaying for females and castration for males, is an important step in preventing unwanted puppies and kittens. According to the ASPCA’s web site, a cat or dog who reproduces and whose offspring reproduce can produce between 50 and 200 kittens or puppies in one year. Approximately 8,000 dogs and cats are euthanized per year in the Wake County SPCA alone. Clearly, we are in the midst of a pet overpopulation problem.
Surgery: Surgical sterilization (neutering) of pets is a very effective method of dealing with the pet overpopulation problem. Spaying is equivalent to an ovariohysterectomy, which is removal of the ovaries and uterus. Castration involves removal of the testicles. Both of these procedures require anesthesia and an overnight hospital stay. We recommend neutering your pet between 6-8 months of age.
There are many reasons to spay or neuter your pet. The only legitimate reason not to neuter your pet is if he/she is a show animal used for breeding. Surgical sterilization saves lives by decreasing: euthanasia of unwanted puppies and kittens, the associated health risks of pets searching for mating partners, and the incidence in cancer of reproductive and associated organs. Neutering your pet at a young age provides you with a healthier, happier, longer-lived pet!
