Having a pet is one of life’s greatest joys, but it also comes with great responsibility. As a pet owner, it’s a priority to consider their health, safety, and overall well being. One of the many ways to do this is by deciding whether to desex your pets. In this article, we will look at the process and the benefits of desexing pets.
Process of Desexing Pets
Desexing is the removal of reproductive organs. Females are spayed by removing the ovaries and uterus; males are neutered by removing the testicles. As with any medical procedure, it isn’t without risk. Potential complications include infection at the incision site and blood loss during the process. Additionally, female cats may develop urinary tract infections. Ultimately, these complications are rare and can usually be avoided by choosing an experienced veterinarian who has performed many successful surgeries. Spaying or neutering, in general, is considered safe and even recommended.
Age To Desex Pets
The age at which you should have your pet spayed or neutered varies depending on the type of animal you have and its size and breed. Generally speaking, most veterinarians recommend that smaller dogs and cats be desexed by six months old, while larger breeds may need to wait until they turn one year old. Always consult your veterinarian about the best time for your furbaby to have the procedure.
Benefits of Desexing Pets
Health Benefits
Desexed animals are at a lesser risk of having certain medical conditions, such as cancer (testicular cancer in males and uterine cancer in females.) Neutered dogs are also less likely to develop urinary tract infections. Spayed animals, on the other hand, have less risk for pyometra, an infection in the uterus, which can be severe or even fatal if left untreated,
Social Benefits
One of the most important benefits of desexing pets is it helps reduce unwanted pregnancies, pet overpopulation and homelessness. Unwanted litters often end up in shelters or on the streets, where they struggle with hunger, illness, and other dangers.
Behavioural Benefits
Desexed pets tend to be more docile and less aggressive towards humans or other animals. They are usually calmer and more social than their unspayed and unneutered counterparts, which means they will be easier to train and more enjoyable companions for you. Additionally, as they no longer need to search for a mate, they have less roaming tendencies, reducing the risk of getting lost or injured.
Financial Benefits
Desexing can save you both veterinary bills and pet food costs. Spayed and neutered pets often require fewer medical visits due to reduced risks of certain medical conditions and infections. They also tend to eat less because they have fewer hormones driving them to consume more food than necessary.
Consider the Risks and Benefits of Desexing Pets Before Making A Decision
Whilst there are numerous benefits of desexing pets, the ultimate decision to have your pet go through the process is yours. It is essential to understand what spaying or neutering involves and the potential risks and benefits of the procedure. Researching the topic and speaking to your veterinarian is the best way to make an informed decision tailored to your furbaby’s specific needs.
