Spaying and neutering are the words we use to describe a veterinary surgery that makes pets incapable of reproduction. Spaying is a surgery that removes the ovaries and uterus of female animals, and neutering removes the testicles of a male.
While some people feel these surgeries are unnecessary, they actually have many benefits. Sterilizing your pets lengthens their lifespan, prevents overpopulation, and keeps them from wandering.
Why Spaying or Neutering Your Pet Is Important
The main goal of sterilization is to reduce the number of unwanted litters. Pet overpopulation can have some disastrous effects.
For starters, overpopulation means that the majority of cats and dogs will face homelessness at some point in their lives. Feral cats and stray dogs spread diseases throughout animal populations, cause fights, and even decimate local wild animal populations. And When shelters are overcrowded, even healthy animals get euthanized.
Plus, pets who are spayed or neutered tend to live much longer than those who are not. Spaying and neutering eliminate the risk of reproductive cancers, prostate problems, and some types of infections.
But most importantly, it reduces the urge to find a mate. Far too often, intact pets whose mating instincts drive them to roam end up lost, injured, or killed when they get hit by a car or snared by a larger predator.
Will Spaying or Neutering Change My Pet’s Personality?
There are some behavioral changes that are common after spaying or neutering in pets, however these changes are often considered beneficial. Here’s what you can expect.
Less Aggression
Neutered males tend to exhibit fewer aggressive behaviors because of testosterone drops after neutering.
Less Marking
Scent marking leaves unpleasant smells that are hard to get rid of and can even ruin your furniture, carpets, and personal items. Spaying and neutering typically eliminate your pet’s need to leave urine scent markers around their “territory.”
Less Roaming
Mating instincts can drive pets to start looking for ways to escape your home or yard. This urge to roam not only increases not only their risk of getting lost, but also the risk of accidents, injuries, and fights with other animals.
Where to Book a Spay or Neuter Appointment for Pets in Gilbert
Spaying and neutering are routine surgeries, and side effects are extremely rare. Most pets can be spayed or neutered as soon as they are 6 to 8 weeks old. If you have a new puppy or kitten, getting them “fixed” means they’ll be able to enjoy a longer life. Adult pets can get spayed or neutered as well, and the surgery will make domestic life easier for both of you.
East Valley Animal Hospital offers comprehensive care for pets of all ages. From vaccinations and parasite prevention to surgeries like spaying or neutering, we’re ready to handle all of your pet’s healthcare needs. Contact us to schedule an appointment at our Gilbert clinic today.
Images used under creative commons license – commercial use (3/21/26). Photo by Erik Hathaway on Unsplash