The importance of spaying: A responsible choice for pet owners

Spaying is a crucial aspect of responsible pet ownership, yet many owners overlook its significance. While the decision to spay a pet may seem daunting, it comes with numerous health and behavioural benefits. This procedure not only helps control the pet population but also improves the overall well-being of your furry companion.

Spaying vs Castration: Understanding the difference

Spaying and Castration are both surgical procedures designed to prevent pets from reproducing. They differ in terms of the animals they are performed on and the specific organs removed.

Spaying is the process of removing the ovaries and usually the uterus in female pets, preventing them from going into heat and eliminating the risk of pregnancy.

Castration, on the other hand, refers to the removal of the testicles in male pets, reducing aggressive tendencies and the urge to roam in search of a mate.

Being Aware of a Pet’s Age Before Spaying

You should always check with your vet what age is best to get your dog spayed, as they can consider factors such as breed and health. However, for larger breeds we consider the effect on hormones on growth. As there is a lot of evidence that links early neutering to orthopaedic problems, such as cruciate disease, we generally recommend spaying anywhere between a year and a half to two years old.

We also advise that cats can be spayed from four months old, especially If they are roaming, they can start reproducing from this age. It’s important to keep them indoors until the procedure is done (if there are no other intact male cats in the home).

Preventing Overpopulation

One of the most critical reasons to spay pets is to reduce the overpopulation of stray animals. Every year, millions of unwanted cats and dogs end up in rescue centres, just like ours. By spaying your pet, you contribute to preventing the birth of litters that may not find a safe and loving home, ultimately reducing the number of homeless animals.

Health Benefits for Your Pet

Spaying significantly lowers the risk of certain cancers and infections in female pets. It eliminates the chances of ovarian and uterine cancer and drastically reduces the risk of mammary tumours. Additionally, spaying prevents life-threatening uterine infections, such as pyometra, which can be fatal if left untreated.

For cats, it can help stop other males fighting with one another which stops them contracting and spreading feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) and feline leukaemia virus (FeLV).

Improved Behaviour and Reduced Roaming

Unspayed female pets often go into heat, which can lead to undesirable behaviours such as excessive howling, restlessness, and marking their territory. Spaying eliminates heat cycles, making pets calmer and more content. You can also see a reduction in hyperactivity behaviours. Additionally, once spayed they are less likely to roam in search of a mate, reducing the risk of accidents, injuries, and getting lost.

However, it is so important to speak to your vet first if your dog lacks confidence, as spaying them can make it worse.

Cost-Effective in the Long Run

While some pet owners may be concerned about the cost of spaying, it is a one-time expense that can make significant savings in the future. Treating infections, cancer, or injuries resulting from roaming can be far more costly than the spaying procedure itself.

Adopt Don’t Shop

Usually, all animals rehomed from rehoming centres, like ours, will have already been spayed or neutered, saving a new owner this additional expense. This is why we always strongly recommend considering adopting your new pet from a rescue, rather than buying. Alongside saving money, you are providing a loving home for a homeless animal.

If you would like to rehome an animal, you can view all our dogs, cats, and small animals looking for homes here.

If you have any additional questions regarding spaying your pet, please get in touch with your local centre here.