Spay or Neuter? The Health and Behavior Benefits Every Pet Owner Should Know
Spaying and neutering do more than prevent unplanned litters. Done before sexual maturity, these routine surgeries lower cancer risk, curb problem behaviors, and can add years to your pet’s life.
Health Benefits Spaying a female before her first heat all but eliminates the risk of breast cancer and removes the risk of ovarian and uterine cancer entirely. Neutering a male before sexual maturity prevents testicular cancer and lowers the risk of prostate disease and hernias.
Behavior and Safety Benefits Sterilized pets are less likely to roam, fight, or develop aggression, which also lowers their risk of contagious disease, fight-related injuries, and being hit by a car. On average, sterilized pets live two to three years longer than their unsterilized counterparts.
A Bigger-Picture Benefit Spaying before a pet’s first heat helps prevent unplanned litters, one of the leading contributors to pet overpopulation and shelter overcrowding.
Not sure when to schedule your pet’s spay or neuter? Contact our team to find the right timing and procedure for your pet’s age, breed, and health history.