The decision to spay or neuter a pet is a crucial one that every responsible pet owner should consider. Spaying refers to fixing a female cat or dog, while neutering involves fixing a male cat or dog. These procedures offer various benefits for both pets and their owners. At University Parkway Animal Hospital in Jackson, TN, we can safely spay or neuter your cat or dog and help keep it healthy. To learn more about the advantages of spaying and neutering, we invite you to keep reading!
The Advantages of Spaying or Neutering Pets
Preventing Unwanted Litters
One of the primary advantages of spaying and neutering is the prevention of unwanted litters. Many puppies and kittens end up in shelters each year due to unplanned pregnancies. These animals often face uncertain futures and many are euthanized due to lack of available homes. By spaying or neutering pets, owners can actively contribute to reducing pet overpopulation and the subsequent strain on animal shelters.
Improved Health
Spaying and neutering help keep your pet healthy. Spaying a female pet eliminates the risk of uterine infections and greatly reduces the chances of cancer. Neutering male pets also helps prevent cancer and reduces prostate problems from occurring. When the reproductive organs are removed from your pet, it increases the chances of having a healthy pet.
Reduced Behavioral Issues
Behavioral issues are also commonly addressed through spaying and neutering. Unaltered animals are more likely to exhibit undesirable behaviors, such as roaming, aggression, and marking territory with urine. These behaviors can be mitigated by spaying or neutering, as the procedures help reduce the influence of hormones that drive these instinctual behaviors. Along with that, animals that are spayed and neutered are often calmer, more well-behaved, and easier to train, which enhances the bond between pet and owner.
When Should Pets Be Spayed or Neutered?
Spaying and neutering can be performed at a relatively young age. Our veterinarian recommends the procedures before the first heat cycle in females and around six months of age in males. Early spaying and neutering have been shown to have long-term health benefits and can help prevent unwanted behaviors from developing.
Contact us for an Appointment Today
At University Parkway Animal Hospital in Jackson, TN, our team provides pet surgery services, including spaying and neutering. To learn more about this procedure or to schedule your appointment, contact us at (731) 661-0711 today. We are dedicated to improving your pet’s health!