Should I Spay or Neuter My Pet? Part 2

Each year, over two million dogs and four million cats are euthanized at U.S. animal shelters.  These animals are euthanized for the simple fact that there just are no homes for them. The primary causes of this tragedy is the people who fail to have their pets spayed or neutered, and who abandon or give up pets because of lack of commitment to training the pet. Animal shelters are overburdened with surplus animals and irresponsible breeding contributes to the problem of dog bites and attacks. 

Spaying and neutering will help your pet live a longer, healthier life, especially for those females who are spayed before their first heat cycle.   Spaying a dog or cat eliminates her heat cycle. Estrus lasts an average of 6-7 days, 3 or more times a year in cats. The surgery includes the removal of the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and uterus. A major advantage for most owners is the elimination of heat cycles and unwanted pregnancies. Female cats normally cycle from February to November each year.  Even if someone can find homes for one litter of kittens, the overpopulation cycle continues if the animals are allowed to breed.

Research has shown that early spaying or neutering of your pet can aid in the recovery process, giving your pet a speedy and virtually painless recovery. Years ago, when safe pediatric anesthetic techniques were not available, waiting until a patient was older increased the safety of surgery, but that is no longer the case. Depending on your pet's age and health, he or she will stay at your veterinarian's office for a few hours or a few days. Depending on what procedure, your pet may need stitches removed after a few days. Your vet will use his highest standards to ensure your pet is as comfortable as possible during his or her stay and to make sure your pet will be safe. 

Make it your mission to ensure that the stray cat that frequents your back yard doesn't bring more strays into the world to endure the same hard life. At this rate there will never be enough homes for all adoptable pets.  Neutering will not change a pet's basic personality. He doesn't suffer any kind of emotional reaction or identity crisis when neutered. 

In general, animal welfare organizations and veterinarians agree that spaying and neutering pets is a responsible decision that will benefit both pets and owners. Pet health care professionals insist that problems can certainly be avoided with these simple procedures.   There will never be enough good homes for all of these unwanted pets. Humane shelters will continue to euthanize millions of healthy cats and dogs each year for no reason other than homes cannot be found for them.  Preventing the birth of kittens for which there will be no homes is one of the best reasons to have a pet cat altered. Additionally, altered dogs and cats are less likely to wander and become lost while searching for a mate and are less likely to bite or become aggressive.   

Much like children, animals depend on humans to keep them happy and healthy.  Also, remember, spaying/neutering is an excellent way to reduce health risks to your pet. This includes showing your pet you care for him or her by providing adequate attention in the form of petting, feeding, exercise, training, and just loving them.

NOTE:  This article is for information only.   See your veterinarian for medical advice