Many pet owners believe in spaying and neutering their furry friends to ensure they have a happy and healthy life. If you are considering spaying or neutering your pet, contact our team at Duarte Azusa Animal Hospital. We have gathered some of the questions that we run into regarding spaying and neutering.
What Does Spay & Neuter Mean?
Spaying and neutering are very similar medical procedures performed on animals. Spaying means the sterilization of a female animal. The medical procedure is called an ovariohysterectomy. A veterinarian removes the ovaries, Fallopian tubes, and uterus from the female cat or dog. This is done to eliminate their heat cycles, breeding-related behaviors, and ability to become pregnant.
Neutering is defined as the castration of a male animal. It occurs during an orchiectomy as the male's testes are removed. Much like their female counterparts, the surgery will eliminate their breeding behaviors and the ability to impregnate other animals.
Is Being Spayed or Neutered Healthy For My Pet?
Spaying or neutering will help your pet live a longer, healthier life. The medical procedure will reduce the odds of your pet contracting certain health conditions. Some of these conditions include ovarian and breast cancer in female animals and testicular and prostate cancer in males.
How Old Does My Pet Need to Be for Spaying or Neutering?
A veterinarian will only spay or neuter animals that are two months and older. Your pet will not feel any pain while it is under anesthesia during the medical procedure. Your pet will experience some discomfort following the surgery, but that should go away in a day or two. While your pet is healing, it should take it easy in a quiet environment away from other animals for a few days.
Spaying & Neutering in Duarte, CA
If you are unsure if spaying or neutering is the right choice for your pet, Dr. Zabihi at Duarte Azusa Animal Hospital can answer any questions that you may have about the procedures. Call us today at (626) 357-2251 to learn more or to schedule an appointment.