Neutering

At Aireworth Vets we recommend that most puppies and kittens be neutered.

For most owners the fact that your pet will not be responsible for a litter of potentially unwanted puppies or kittens is the main reason for neutering.

The benefits also range from correcting behavioural issues to lowering the risk of fatal cancers.

Castrating Male Cats and Dogs
Castration is the removal of the testicles to prevent your pet from mating and fathering kittens or puppies. Castration is not reversible.
Many entire (un‑castrated) dogs and cats cause problems by being overly dominant or agressive and they may have a tendency to wander and be a nuisance to neighbours..
Most un-neutered cats will acquire the characteristic, pungent tom cat smell and spray strong smelling urine around the home and garden.

Spaying Female Cats and Dogs
A spay is an operation performed under general anaesthetic, to remove the uterus (womb) and the ovaries, also known as an ovarian-hysterectomy.
Many older bitches and cats get uterine infections called pyometra. The uterus becomes infected and releases toxins into the body and can damage the kidneys and other organs.
This condition can only be successfully treated by hysterectomy.

When should my Dog be Neutered?
We usually advise that male dogs should be castrated after they are 6 months old. Dogs can be neutered at a later age.
A bitch can be spayed either before her first season between 4 and 6 months of age; or 3 months after any season.
We do not advise spaying (except for medical reasons) in the first 2-3 months after a season as many dogs get false pregnancies and produce milk during this period.

When should my Cat be Neutered?
We usually advise that male cats should be castrated after they are 6 months old. Cats can be neutered at a later age.
Female cats should be spayed once they are 4 months old. They may come into season at 6 months, so they risk having an unwanted pregnancy whilst they are still very young.
At Aireworth Vets we usually perform the spay through an incision in the cat's flank, although you may choose to have a 'mid-line' spay if you prefer. Please ask the Vet to explain the pro's and con's of each procedure.

What problems could there be?
Like any operation, there is a very small risk with a general anaesthetic, the vet will discuss this with you before you make the decision.
Some cats and dogs may be prone to gain weight after being neutered, this is easily controlled by managing the amount of food given. Click here for more information about what happens when your pet has an operation at Aireworth Vets.

For more information about neutering
Our knowledgable staff have produced leaflets about castration and spaying which you are welcome to download from this website; or you can make an appointment to discuss neutering with a Vet or a Nurse.