February is spay/neuter month here in the United States and it is crucial to know the importance of those two procedures. They have several health and behavioral benefits that go along with them as well as economic benefits.
When a female is spayed, the surgeon will perform an ovariectomy or an ovariohysterectomy. Ovariectomy refers to the surgical removal of the ovaries, while an ovariohysterectomy refers to the surgical removal of the ovaries and uterus. On the other hand, when a male is neutered or castrated the testes are surgically removed. Those procedures should be performed between 8 weeks and 6 months of age is possible. However, they can be done at any time during your pets' life as well.
Spaying or neutering your dog or cat will eliminate their risk of developing testicular, ovarian and uterine cancers. It will also significantly reduce their risk of developing infections, mammary tumors, prostate enlargement and many other complications. Several undesirable and unpleasant behaviors will go away as well. Males will be less inclined to display aggression, inappropriate urine marking, and humping while females won't have to experience the nervous behavior or discomfort caused by their heat cycles. If you are not planning to breed your dog or cat, then they should be spayed or neutered right away.
It's important to evaluate the current situation throughout shelters all across the country before breeding an animal. Too many dogs and cats are euthanized every day due to overcrowding and lack of resources. Not to mention the millions of dollars spend every year to euthanize them. Spaying or neutering your dog or cat will help control this situation and prevent them from reproducing more pets than there are homes to take care of them.
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