Spaying and Neutering Your Dog or Cat

Spaying and neutering involve the surgical removal of the reproductive organs in cats and dogs; castration for males and ovariohysterectomy for females. The goal is not only to help control pet overpopulation but also to prevent reproductive system diseases and infections.

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At What Age Should I Have My Dog or Cat Spayed or Neutered?

A female cat can get pregnant as early as five months old, meaning unwanted litters can happen sooner than you might expect. By spaying your kitten between three and six months of age, you help prevent these “accidents” and avoid contributing to the overflow of cats in our shelters. Cats under 6 months of age must be vaccinated before being spayed or neutered.

Female dogs are preferably spayed before their first heat. However, in some cases, it may be recommended to wait long enough to allow for the optimal development of the animal’s musculoskeletal system before proceeding with the surgery. The first heat cycle can occur as early as five months of age in small breeds, while large breeds typically experience it later, around eight to ten months or more. At the Clinique Vétérinaire des petits animaux de l’Estrie, we recommend discussing the best timing with your veterinarian.

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What Are the Benefits of Spaying or Neutering my Pet?

Spaying or neutering can improve your pet’s quality of life and longevity, while also reducing many health and behavioral issues.

According to the Quebec Association of Veterinarians, an unspayed female dog is at risk of developing:

  • Mammary gland tumors (breast cancer)
  • Serious uterine infections (pyometra)
  • Spaying your female dog before her first heat is an effective way to prevent these issues.

Unneutered male dogs are at risk of developing:

  • Testicular tumors
  • Perianal tumors
  • Prostate hyperplasia

What are the benefits of spaying or neutering cats?

  • Cancers and infections of the reproductive organs
  • Transmission of contagious or sexually transmitted diseases
  • For example, feline AIDS (FIV), which is transmitted through bites during fights, is less common in spayed or neutered cats because they tend to be less aggressive.

Yes. Spaying and neutering significantly reduce behaviors related to seeking mates, such as roaming and wandering.

Studies show that up to 85% of dogs hit by cars are not spayed or neutered.

Absolutely. In unspayed or unneutered cats:

  • Urine marking is common in males, and sometimes in females.
  • Urine odors tend to be stronger.
  • Spaying or neutering reduces or eliminates these unwanted behaviors and associated odors.

Yes. By reducing harmful behaviors, disease risks, roaming, and accidents, spaying or neutering contributes to a calmer, healthier, and longer life for both the pet and their owner.

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