Spay & Neuter

Spay and neuter surgeries are one of the most important things we can do for our pets. Not only are you saving future lives by preventing overpopulation, you are helping your own pet live a healthier, more fulfilling life, free from a number of preventable diseases.

A brown and black mother tabby cat lays on a white fur blanket while several kittens nurse at her belly

Why is it important to spay or neuter my pet?

Millions of unwanted pets sit in shelters across the country, and millions more healthy pets are euthanized every year as a result of overpopulation. Spaying or neutering your pet will prevent the unplanned birth of more animals.

Spaying and neutering also provides behavioral and health benefits to your pet, setting them up for a long and happy life with you. Spaying female cats and dogs at a young age prevents uterine infection, reduces the risk of breast cancer, and eliminates heat cycles. Neutering male cats and dogs prevents testicular cancer, and reduces the risk of prostate disease.

Spaying and neutering may also prevent or alter unwanted behavioral issues such as marking, roaming, and aggression.

What age should be my pet be spayed or neutered?

For dogs, this can be dependent on breed, size and a number of other factors. Most dog spays and neuters are performed between 6 and 9 months of age. For larger breeds, you can sometimes wait until they are a little older, allowing their bones to mature. We can consult with you and help you decide based on your individual dog’s breed, age, sex, personality, home environment, and health.

For cats, it is recommended that they are spayed or neutered by 5 months of age for maximum benefit.

Often in shelters and rescues pets are spayed and neutered at a much younger age, and this is also ok! Likewise, if you have an older cat or dog that is not yet spayed or neutered, they still certainly can be! We will discuss with you at their visit and advise the best time for your pet.

Pet Spay & Neuter Questions

You might be wondering…

Spaying and neutering focuses on behavioral changes influenced by hormones in your pet, not their personality! These are generally considered overwhelmingly positive changes by pet owners. Your pet will still have all of their unique, playful, and affectionate qualities that make them the same pet you’ve always known and loved!

Some doctors may prefer to delay your spay surgery until after your pet is no longer in heat, however this is largely dependent on the specific species, age, and condition of the pet. It can also carry potentially higher costs for increased surgery time and materials. However, cats for example, can often remain in heat throughout the entire spring and summer, and it may not be feasible to wait this long. If you are looking to have your pet spayed while she is in heat, ask your veterinarian and we will address this with you on a case-by-case basis.

Your pet’s vulva will likely appear swollen and red. They may be experiencing bloody discharge and increased urination, and are typically restless, vocal, and more affectionate than usual.

Many times it benefits both you and your pet for minor additional surgical procedures to be performed at the same time as a spay or neuter, so that they do not have to undergo anesthesia or recovery twice. Some breeds for example benefit from having their stomach tacked down, or airways opened up. Our veterinarians will be able to give you the best recommendation for your pet.

Like any surgery, a spay or neuter is unique to each individual pet based on their age, weight, medical condition, or other factors. We can provide a detailed estimate once we have performed a physical exam on your pet, that will include all required pre- and post-operative care.

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Modern Pet Care

With all new, top-of-the-line equipment and a gorgeous new facility, we’re modernizing the entire pet care experience. Our hybrid primary-and-emergency care model eliminates day-to-ER transfers, reducing stress on both pets and owners, while also allowing for consistency in treatment planning and standard of care.