LA Vets

The Benefits of Spayed and Neutered Pets

Although the thought of spaying or neutering your pet may seem a little cruel and unnecessary, it is an extremely important step in caring for your pet. The fact of the matter is that spayed and neutered animals tend to live much longer and healthier lives than those who do not undergo the procedure. There are many benefits to spaying and neutering, including:

• Longer life for your pet
• Healthier life for your pet
• More loyal pet
• More affectionate pet
• Helps keep number of stray animals down
• Never worrying about what to do with your pet’s puppies, kittens, etc.

The health benefits vary according to the sex of the animal. For example, spaying your female pet will help reduce the chance of mammary tumors, cancer, ovary or uterus tumors, pregnancy, and uterine infections. Neutering male animals will help reduce the risk of cancer, testicular tumors, prostate tumors, and the tendency to wander.

Although there are rumors that spayed or neutered pets become lethargic and unhappy, this is simply not true. Owners of pets who are spayed and neutered often report that their animal is not only happy and healthy, but as energetic as they were before undergoing the procedure.

It is best to spay or neuter your pet when they are five to six months old; however, this may vary depending on your pet’s development. Contact your Los Angeles Veterinarian for more information about the procedure. Your veterinarian will be able to answer any of your questions and help you make the important decisions necessary to protect and prolong the health of your pet.