Importance of Spaying and Neutering your Pet

The Importance of Spaying and Neutering Your Pet

Pet Medical Center of Westerville in Westerville, OH, has been serving the community and providing veterinary care since 1999. Whether your pet needs a routine exam or spaying and neutering services, our veterinarian can help. Before your schedule your appointment, learn more about the importance of spaying and neutering below:

Understanding Spaying and Neutering

Spaying and neutering services can help keep your pet healthy. Spaying involves sterilizing female cats and dogs to prevent pregnancy, while neutering sterilizes them to prevent pregnancy in females that are not spayed. Your pet is eligible for the procedure once they are six months old. Our veterinarian will perform a thorough examination to learn more about your pet’s overall health and determine if they qualify for the surgery.

Benefits of Spaying and Neutering

Spaying and neutering provides a variety of benefits. The procedures can prevent serious health conditions, unwanted litters produced by your pets, and can improve behavior in cats and dogs. Along with that, pets that are spayed and neutered live long, healthier lives.

Health Conditions

Pets that are not spayed or neutered are at risk for serious health conditions. These include mammary cancer in females and testicular cancer in males, prostate enlargement in dogs, and urinary tract infections. Cats can also be susceptible to womb infections without the procedure. Outdoor cats that are not spayed and neutered cats can also contract Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV).

Changes to Your Pet’s Behavior

In some instances, spaying a dog or cat can lead to changes in their metabolism, which can lead to a decrease in physical activity, however, light exercise can help with healing. Aggressive behavior may also be reduced by spaying or neutering, but it depends on your pet’s age. Some animals may experience increased negative behavior, but the procedure helps with aggression toward other animals and they will roam around less.

Contact us for an Appointment Today!

If you are considering having your pet spayed or neutered, contact Pet Medical Center of Westerville to schedule an appointment at (614) 882-7700. Our veterinarian will explain the procedure to you and make sure your cat or dog stays comfortable the entire time