Pet owners hear a lot about spaying and neutering their pets. First, it’s important to get the terms right. Spaying is the surgical removal of the ovaries and uterus of females. Neutering is the surgical removal of the testicles of males. Both procedures result in the sterilization of the animal. And both have certain benefits. In both cats and dogs, spaying means there will be no more heat periods, there will be no unwanted pregnancies and that uterine infections in older animals will be less likely to occur. There is also a lower risk of developing mammary-gland cancer. Neutering male cats and dogs reduces the sexual instinct. In cats, the tendency to fight and to prowl at night will be reduced. This is true in dogs, too, but sometimes to a lesser extent. Dogs will generally become less aggressive, too. The objectionable urine odor of male cats can also be reduced by neutering.

Regardless of your choices, the licensed veterinarians at Pet Doctors of America will give your pet the very best care possible.

Of course, we are always available to answer any questions you may have about spaying or neutering your pet.