Spaying or neutering your pets is beneficial. However, you may have reservations about whether to spay or neuter, especially due to myths and misinformation. For complete information, especially about benefits and risks, talk to your vet, but some of the myths regarding spaying and neutering will be dispelled here.
1. Myth: Females should have one litter before being spayed.
There are no scientific studies demonstrating that there is any benefit for females, whether dogs or cats, to have a litter before being spayed. There is no medical need for your dog or cat to have offspring. In fact, there is evidence showing that it's best to spay and neuter before the first litter. Spaying and neutering prevents certain types of cancer, and the risk is decreased the most before your pet goes into her first heat.
2. Myth: Your pet will be different after the procedure.
There are no adverse effects on behavior following the procedure. Your pet will be just as fit, active, protective, and docile as he or she was before. Your pet will not get fat or lazy. Proper diet and exercise will prevent your pet from becoming overweight, even if they have been spayed or neutered. In fact, if there are any changes in behavior, they will likely be positive. Here are some positive behavior changes that may occur:
- Reduced spraying in male cats
- Reduced fighting and aggressiveness
- Reduced likelihood of your pet leaving the home
3. Myth: My male pet will not feel masculine.
Your male pet will most likely not even notice his missing testicles. Your pet doesn't need testicles to be loving and protective of your family or home. By removing his testicles, you're also keeping him safe. He will be less likely to get into fights with other males over territory or mates, and his risk of testicular cancer will be reduced.
4. Myth: Spaying and neutering before puberty is harmful.
There is a myth that spaying and neutering before puberty is harmful. You may have heard that kittens and puppies have a hard time recovering and may have stunted growth. Neither of those ideas is true. In fact, young animals have faster recoveries from the procedure due to a number of factors, including anesthesia effects and reduced body fat. Also, spaying and neutering may increase growth in puberty.
With the above myths in mind, talk to a vet, such as one at Caring Hands Animal Hospital, about the benefits of spaying and neutering. Your vet will recommend the best procedure at the right time based on your pet's individual characteristics.
