Pet owners hear all the time the importance of spaying or neutering their pet but often don’t understand why. Our Central Houston Animal Hospital team has compiled the six top benefits of spaying or neutering your pet, from better health and a longer lifespan, to reducing overpopulation. We want you to be aware of the benefits—and then to schedule your pet’s procedure at our clinic. 

1. Pet overpopulation is reduced

Animal shelters are under tremendous strain caring for all the homeless cats and dogs and seeing so many be euthanized to make room for the continuous stream of pets. Spaying or neutering your pet will prevent unwanted litters, which in turn reduces pet overpopulation, and allows shelters to provide better care, and hopefully find homes, for their animals. 

2. Your pet will live longer

Several studies have shown that pets spayed or neutered at the appropriate time live significantly longer than pets who haven’t had the procedure. Neutered male dogs have been shown to live 18% longer, while spayed female dogs live 23% longer. Spayed female cats live 39% longer, while neutered male cats live 62% longer. These differences are mostly because spaying or neutering decreases your pet’s chances of reproductive cancers. The most significant difference, in male cats, is because neutering diminishes their desire to roam, which often results in them being struck by a car or becoming another animal’s prey. 

3. Reproductive cancers in pets are prevented

Spaying or neutering pets significantly reduces the risk of reproductive cancers in pets. The procedure mostly eliminates the risk of mammary (i.e., breast) cancer in female dogs and cats when performed before their first heat cycle. In intact (i.e., unspayed) female pets, mammary cancer is often fatal. In male dogs and cats, neutering eliminates testicular cancer and decreases the risk of prostate conditions. 

4. Unwanted pet behaviors are fewer

Intact pets in heat often behave inappropriately to convey their interest or attract a mate. These behaviors may include:

  • Urine-marking their territory
  • Roaming or leaving home to find a mate
  • Humping
  • Uncharacteristic aggression 

These behaviors are not only inappropriate but also messy. Fortunately,  spaying or neutering your pet will reduce or eliminate these behaviors. However, the longer your pet performs these behaviors, the more likely they will continue after their procedure. Ask our Central Houston Animal Hospital veterinarian to recommend the best time for your pet’s spay or neuter. 

5. Pyometra is eliminated for female pets

Pyometra is a uterine infection that affects female dogs and cats and can be life-threatening. Every heat cycle, a female pet’s body undergoes hormonal changes that increase her risk of infection caused by bacteria gathering in the uterus. When the bacteria build up, become trapped, and cannot be discharged, the pet can become severely ill. Organ rupture, which is more dangerous, can also occur. Spaying female pets eliminates this risk. 

6. Pets avoid the discomfort of heat cycles

Female pets in heat often act erratically and become restless and anxious. Male pets become territorial and may be aggressive toward other intact males and fight and be injured, or toward their owner. Spaying or neutering avoids these behaviors and your pet will stay at home, relaxed and content. 

The best time to spay or neuter pets

The appropriate time to spay or neuter a pet differs slightly depending on the animal. For cats, as early as safely possible is best in most cases, while for dogs, the best time differs from breed to breed and according to age and size. The best decision can be made after a discussion with our veterinary team. 

Spaying and neutering are essential aspects of pet health care. The procedures not only improve your pet’s health but also can improve the outlook for the many unfortunate pets currently in shelters—and those yet to be born who may end up with the same fate. Contact our Central Houston Animal Hospital if you still have questions about the benefits of spaying and neutering, and to schedule your pet’s procedure at the appropriate time.