Female dogs are recommended to be neutered prior to their first season (so around 6 months old) or at least 2 months post season. Female cats can be neutered from 14 - 16 weeks old as per ISFM guidelines and ideally not when in season and before access to outdoors.
- Prevents the female coming into season and so males will not be attracted to them and for cats they are less likely to roam
- The risk of mammary gland tumors, ovarian and/or uterine cancer is reduced or eliminated especially if done before the first season
- It also eliminates the risk of pyometra which can be a life threatening infection of the womb and is common in older female dogs that haven’t been spayed
- Prevents unwanted pregnancies
Castration in your dog and cat
Recommended from 5 months and older. We advise for cats to be castrated before being let outside.
- Reduction of unwanted sexual behavior (such as spraying and desire to roam in cats)
- For dogs and cats, the risk of testicular cancer in castrated animals is eliminated and the risk of prostate disease is reduced
- Reduction in the number of unwanted litters
- It can decrease aggressive behavior depending on the cause
Spaying and castration of rabbits
Rabbits can be castrated or spayed from around 4 months old depending on the individual size.
- Eliminate the risk of uterine tumours in females so increasing life expectancy
- Prevents unwanted litters in multi rabbit household
- Reduces aggression in both males and females and enables pair bonding as are calmer and more relaxed.
Which procedure to choose for spaying?
For female dogs there are two options for spaying: midline laparotomy (incision into the underside of the abdomen) or the alternative is to remove the ovaries laproscopically (keyhole surgery). This procedure is less invasive and involves smaller wounds, with reduced post operative pain and quicker recovery time.
How long for recovery?
Neutering procedures are carried out between Monday - Friday. Recovery at home from the anaesthetic normally only takes a day or so but the wound can take up to around 10 days to fully heal so restricted exercise during this time is recommended. The necessary follow up checks and pain relief are included.
Feel free to book in to speak to a nurse or vet to discuss neutering and to answer any questions you may have.