Spaying and neutering: benefits, risks and timing

Possible signs

• The decision should consider species, sex, age, expected adult size, breed, health and risk of accidental mating
• Heat, possible pregnancy, an undescended testicle or associated disease changes the procedure plan and timing

Contact a veterinarian today if

• Contact the clinic the same day if the incision opens, swells markedly, produces discharge or the pet is unusually lethargic

What it is

Spaying prevents pregnancy and, when ovaries and uterus are removed, prevents pyometra; depending on timing it may also reduce mammary-tumour risk. Castration prevents breeding and testicular disease, but it does not solve every behaviour problem. Especially in dogs, the decision should consider sex, expected adult size, breed, lifestyle, real risk of accidental mating and individual disease risks. Surgery is generally safe but anaesthetic, bleeding, infection and later weight-gain risks are not zero.

What to expect at the veterinarian

The veterinarian will assess age, body condition, growth, breed-related risks, heart and breathing health, and possible pregnancy or heat. Planning may include blood tests and an individual anaesthetic protocol. Agree on the exact procedure, which organs will be removed, pain control, wound care and activity restriction. Cats not intended for breeding are commonly operated on before sexual maturity; timing in dogs, especially large breeds, is more individual.