Pets are just as individual as their owners. Age, size, breed, and health are just a few of the many aspects that impact Fido and Fluffy’s care. Spaying and neutering is something we wholeheartedly endorse for all dogs and cats, regardless of our differing views on the optimal methods of exercise and pet nutrition. A Leonardtown, MD veterinarian offers their explanations in the following article.

Fixing Your Pet as a Weapon Against Pet Overpopulation

Getting dogs spayed or neutered is crucial because it reduces the likelihood of unwanted litters. An excess of pets is a serious issue in and of itself, and it, unfortunately, can lead pets into situations of animal hoarding, neglect, and cruelty. Every year, countless cats and dogs meet their deaths. We have the power to decide what happens to millions more.

The list of problems that homeless animals confront is long and includes things like lack of shelter, extreme weather, parasites, injuries, and diseases.

Puppies and kittens, in particular, are extremely cute. But even if you are successful in finding homes for your pet’s litter, there is no way to ensure that your pet’s offspring, including the litters of their offspring, will flourish. The world already has an excessive number of strays; this is the morally correct thing to do.

If you think your pet won’t make a difference, you’re mistaken. Two cats can have 2,072,514 kittens in just nine years! Following closely behind is Fido. In just six years, a litter of two puppies can have as many as 67,000 puppies, with six to ten puppies born in each litter on average.

Sterilized Pets Have Better Health

Medical benefits of spaying and neutering are not to be overlooked. The procedure will almost entirely eliminate the chance of genital cancers in pets and significantly reduce the likelihood of prostate, breast, ovarian, and uterine cancers. Another perk of having your pet spayed or neutered is a decreased risk of UTIs. It is much simpler and cheaper to prevent these issues than to remedy them after the fact. To get more specific information, talk to your Leonardtown, MD vet.

Pet Sterilization Decreases Free-Roaming

Your pet is more likely to get lost, injured, or killed if left unattended. Vehicles, severe weather, wildlife, toxins, parasites, disease, and countless more threats are just a few of the many things that can hurt cats and dogs.

Getting your pet fixed will eliminate their urge for romance. Putting an end to Fido and Fluffy’s constant attempts to bolt whenever you open the door will be a huge relief. There are many motivations for pets to seek escape, but mating instincts are undoubtedly high on the list.

Sterilized Animals Have a Greater Life Expectancy

Getting a pet fixed usually increases their longevity, something I bet you didn’t know. It becomes crystal clear after you consider it. There are so many associated risks with pregnancy and birth. Because of their heightened susceptibility to hazards, dogs are particularly at risk; for instance, a mother and her puppies may perish if a big dog mates with a little dog, but when your pet is fixed, these issues are now off the table.

Additionally, fixing pets makes them safer by reducing wandering injuries. Fighting between unattended male cats or dogs on the street is very possible in an unaltered male animal.

Sterilization Calms Dogs

A significant bonus of getting your pet fixed is that it will improve their mental well-being. It is possible that reducing the hormonal urges would have an effect that was not anticipated, albeit positive. Destructive behaviors like digging, chewing, and running away could become less frequent. On top of that, most pets that are sterilized tend to be more laid-back. It would be quite understandable if Fluffy and Fido also began to snuggle together more. Once they give up trying to find a mate, they will focus only on you. Actually, everything in their universe will be centered on you.

Sterilized Pets Spray Less Often

It might be sufficient to schedule the procedure only based on that. Pets often spray as a way to define their territory. The need to do this typically disappears after surgery. The vast majority of pets will stop spraying after surgery, while some older animals may keep doing it as it is an established habit.

Sterilization Decreases Yowling

Even if this is a bonus, its importance cannot be emphasized enough. Anyone who has ever heard a cat’s screaming love song has our deepest sympathies. In a manner unrelated to music, Fluffy takes pleasure in making her single life apparent. While some felines may take pleasure in the sounds, the majority of us are relieved they spared us the torture of hearing their unholy screeches.

Here Are the FAQs

After Getting Spayed or Neutered, When Can I Expect My Pet to Feel Better?

3 to 5 days is the typical time frame for a pet to recuperate post-surgery. However, the full healing process often takes roughly 10 to 14 days. In times of recovery, it is best to keep your pet from exerting themselves too much. Don’t encourage them to run, jump, or play vigorously until your vet gives you the go-ahead.

How Can I Help My Pet Recuperate After the Operation?

Your veterinary clinic is a good resource for aftercare instructions. They can often provide a booklet or single-sheet printout that has all of their recommendations for you to read through. Read the directions carefully and then put them into practice. Your pet’s recuperation may rely on pain medication and additional nutritional modifications until they are completely recovered.

Aside from that, a clean, comfortable place to rest is basically all your pet needs. Right now, a brand new bed would be an excellent buy to make. It may also be required to keep them comfy while you limit their movement. A puppy playpen, crate, kennel, or carrier will do the trick.

After a Spay or Neuter, How Can I Encourage My Pet’s Recovery?

The first and foremost thing you should do is watch your pet and give them a break. Keep an eye on them so they don’t undo their stitches. Your vet may recommend a collar with an inflatable ring or an Elizabethan collar, which goes by other names like lampshade, e-collar, or cone of shame.

The incision site must be closely monitored. Be vigilant for any changes that may suggest issues, such as redness, swelling, foul odors, heat, bleeding, pus, or any other signs. There are more warning signs, such as a shaky body, vomiting, diarrhea, and difficulty breathing. Although your pet may be experiencing normal levels of sleepiness and weariness, excessive fatigue should be taken seriously. If they’re still a little sleepy when you bring them home, don’t worry— but they shouldn’t be completely groggy after the first day. Do not hesitate to contact your clinic if you observe anything that does not appear to be normal.

What Is the Average Price for a Spay or Neuter?

The pricing will depend on your location. Additional variables that might impact the rates include size, age, and health. However, compared to coping with avoidable health issues or the costs of raising a litter, this method is always the more economical choice. 

Do you need to spay or neuter your pet? Call Breton Animal Hospital in Leonardtown, MD today for all your pet care needs!