About Neutering
Sadly, millions of cats and dogs are abandoned every year and left to fend for themselves. Scores of animals found on the streets overwhelm neighborhood shelters. If some of these beautiful, healthy animals are not placed in loving homes, euthanization is the only alternative. Neutering is a simple and painless answer for reducing the number of unwanted animals that roam the streets as well as a practical way to safeguard a pet’s health.
Procedures
The procedure for spaying a female dog or cat involves removing the ovaries and uterus while under anesthesia. The veterinarian may keep the pet overnight to make sure there are no complications. Neutering for males is the removal of the testicles, which is the source of sperm cells. The male dogs and cats are usually sent home the same day and recovery is rapid.
Benefits
Neutering or castrating the male dog eliminates the risk for testicular cancer as well as the desire to roam, aggressive behavior with other dogs and urine marking. Spaying a female dog before she goes into heat eliminates mammary tumors and prevents her from developing a number of diseases within the reproductive tract.
The male neutered cat becomes content to stay at home and no longer has the need to roam, spray urine or get into fights with other male cats. A female cat in heat can be quite disturbing as she makes constant loud and unnerving sounds while rubbing, rolling and jumping in an attempt to attract male cats. Spaying eliminates all of these behaviors while also reducing the incidence of mammary tumors, which are often malignant in cats.
Popular Misconceptions
Neutering does not change the personality of a pet, but simply reduces their aggressive behavior. The animal’s genetic makeup and training are generally the factors that actually determine most personality traits.
Obesity sometimes occurs following the neutering procedure, although close monitoring of the pet’s diet to limit table scraps and reduce pet food portions prevents the condition from developing. Encouraging regular exercise and playtime to maintain optimum body shape and weight is vital for preventing obesity and further health problems.