Spay and Neuter
Our experienced veterinary surgeon at Companion Animal Health & Rehabilitation Center provides spay and neuter surgery for both cats and dogs. Neuter surgery is the removal of a male pet’s testicles, and spay surgery is the removal of a female pet’s ovaries and uterus. As the benefits of spaying and neutering are great, we highly recommend the surgical sterilization of all pets (not intended for breeding).
The Benefits of Spay and Neuter Surgery
Although considered routine, spay and neuter surgeries are still surgery. All surgery performed under general anesthesia has some risk. The numerous benefits of having your pets spayed or neutered, however, far outweigh any risks or complications associated with the procedures.
Health
Spaying and neutering protects pets from cancers of the reproductive organs, eliminating the potential for some cancers entirely and drastically reducing the risk of developing others. In addition, pets left intact have contact with more animals, which puts them at risk of contracting contagious diseases.
Behavioral
Pets left intact often develop dangerous and unwanted behaviors associated with reproduction, such as roaming, aggression and marking territory.
Community
Spaying and neutering relieves the burden on local animal shelters and gives homeless animals a greater chance of adoption.
Pre and Post Surgical Care
Our veterinarian and staff will provide you instructions for your pet’s surgery, including how to prepare your pet in the hours before surgery and how to provide the best care following the procedure to ensure a safe and speedy recovery.
Most pets return home on the same day as surgery. Prevent your pet from licking the surgical site, chewing stitches and being overly active – especially jumping up or down from high places.
When to Schedule Spay and Neuter Surgery for Your Escondido Dog or Cat
Spaying or neutering a fully matured, adult cat or dog is safe, but our Companion Animal Clinic veterinarian recommends your pet have surgery prior to reaching reproductive maturity; pets left intact until this age will not always enjoy all of the health and behavioral benefits of the surgeries. As long as your pet is otherwise healthy, it is safe to spay or neuter both kittens and puppies at eight weeks of age. Most puppies undergo surgery between six and nine months.
To learn more about spay and neuter surgery or to schedule a consultation for your cat or dog, we invite you to contact our Escondido office today.
