Spay/Neuter FAQs
Spaying and neutering are routine veterinary procedures that offer significant health benefits for your furry companion. However, you may have several questions about these surgeries. Our veterinary team at Westside Animal Hospital in Cincinnati, OH, is here to address some of the most frequently asked questions about these procedures to help you make an informed decision.
What is spaying and neutering?
Spaying is the surgical removal of a female dog or cat's ovaries and uterus. Neutering is the surgical removal of a male dog or cat's testicles. These are standard procedures your veterinarian near you performs to prevent unwanted pregnancies and reduce the risk of health issues related to the reproductive organs.
What are the benefits of spaying and neutering?
Spaying female pets prevents unwanted pregnancies and heat cycles, reduces the risk of breast cancer by up to 90%, and eliminates the chances of getting pyometra. Neutering male pets removes the risk of testicular cancer, prevents prostate issues like hyperplasia and cancer, and lessens roaming and spraying behaviors. These procedures can also improve your pet’s overall behavior by making it calmer and less aggressive and contribute to a longer, healthier life.
What is the recommended age for spaying and neutering?
The optimal age for spaying and neutering can vary depending on your pet’s breed, size, and health. Dogs generally get spayed or neutered between 6-12 months, while cats get spayed or neutered between 4-6 months.
What happens during the procedure/surgery?
Your veterinarian near you will place your pet under general anesthesia to ensure its comfort and safety during the spay or neuter surgery. They will make a small incision in the abdomen to access the reproductive organs and remove them. Your veterinarian will then suture the incision and monitor your pet closely during recovery. You can typically pick your pet up and take it home the same day as the procedure.
What is the recovery process like?
Most pets recover quickly from spaying and neutering. You can expect some mild discomfort or swelling at the incision site, but you can manage this with pain medication provided by your veterinarian. You should restrict your pet's activity level for a few days and prevent it from licking or chewing at the incision.
Are there any risks associated with spaying and neutering?
As with any surgical procedure, spaying and neutering have some potential risks. However, these risks are very low, and the benefits of the procedures far outweigh them. Your veterinarian will discuss potential risks with you before your pet's surgery.
Visit Your Veterinarian Near You in Cincinnati, OH, for Spay/Neuter Surgery Today
Spaying or neutering your pet can prevent unwanted pregnancies and protect it from several significant health issues in the future, so contact Westside Animal Hospital in Cincinnati, OH, to get your pet spayed or neutered today. Deciding to spay or neuter your pet is an important one. Call us and schedule a consultation with our experienced veterinarians at (513) 574-5000 to discuss the best timing and approach for spaying or neutering your pet.
