Ten Reasons to Spay and Neuter Your Pets

Why should you spay or neuter your pet? First, let me explain what the terms mean. Spaying is the removal of the female reproductive organs in dogs and cats. It is also called an ovariohysterectomy. This means that the ovaries and the uterus are removed. On the other hand, male dogs and cats are neutered, or castrated. This is done by removing their testicles. After this surgery, your pet is no longer able to produce offspring.

There are many reasons to spay or neuter your animal companions. Pet overpopulation is a major reason. There are so many unwanted animals. Too many, in fact. However, that is not the only good reason. By spaying or neutering, you contribute to their overall health and well-being. Here are ten reasons why you should spay and neuter.

1) Spaying your female dog or car will completely eliminate the chance of her getting ovarian or uterine cancer later in life. It also reduces the risk of mammary tumors, especially if you spay before the first heat (estrus) cycle. Mammary tumors are more common in dogs, and most are malignant.

2) Spaying will also get rid of the chance of uterine infections, called pyometras. Simply put, the uterus fills with pus. Bacteria then get into the blood stream and cause a life-threatening condition. Emergency surgery is needed or the animal will die.

3) Neutering is beneficial to the male's health as well. It eliminates testicular cancer and decreases prostate problems. The most common condition is called Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH). It is often found in older pets. It happens when the glandular tissue of the prostate increase, putting pressure on the bladder. This can lead to difficulty urinating and defecating.

4) Cats that are sterilized are less likely to spray. They spray urine to mark their territory when competing for females. When they are unable to reproduce, the urge to do this is reduced. Some female cats spray as well. If spayed before their first cycle, they are less likely to do so.