Neutering

Know more about Neutering

There is lots of information out there on neutering your pets, but is it the right thing for yours? The most recent study was from September 2020 “An Overview of Risk Factors Relating To Age of Neutering Cats and Dogs” by Jamie McClement BVSc MSc CertSAS MRCVS. From this study we recommend the following:

  • Small breed dogs and bitches can be neutered from 6 months of age. If the bitch has had a season, we need to wait 3 months until she can be spayed.
  • We offer laparoscopic spays, which consists of 2 small keyhole wounds where a camera and equipment is inserted into the dog to remove the ovaries. This is a minimalistic and the most up to date method of spaying which is less painful and has a quicker recovery time.

Myths:

  • Bitches have do not have to have a season before they are before they are neutered.
  • Pets get fat after neutering.
  • Their behaviour changes after neutering.

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Benefits of neutering:

  • Controls overbreeding – many shelters are at full capacity and thousands of healthy dogs are euthanised yearly.
  • Reduces the risk of prostate problems – roughly 4 out of 5 dogs that aren’t neutered will have an enlarged prostate by the age of 5, which can make urinating difficult. Castrating can prevent this!
  • It stabilises mood – Some male dogs can be aggressive towards other male dogs, this can be reduced, this will still allow the dog to be active and playful.
  • It does not make them overweight – If you feed your dog a good diet and ensure regular exercise, neutering will not cause the dog to be overweight. As your dog ages, focus on balance of diet and exercise, visit our weight clinic for any further weight advice.

Chemical castration, which is an implant which lasts either 6 or 12 months, can be discussed with one of our vets. Once implanted it has the same effect on your dog as if he had been castrated.

Every dog is different, if your dog has undesired behavioural problems, please contact a reputable behaviourist before neutering as this may not be the best option for your dog. We can advise on Registered Behaviourists – please call the surgery.