Spay and Neuter for Dogs and Cats in Grifton, NC

Holding Black Lab

We cannot stress enough how important it is to spay and neuter pets. While preventing unwanted litters is typically the main reason for spaying and neutering, we also recommend it because of the health benefits it can provide for both dogs and cats. At Faithful Friends Veterinary Hospital in Grifton, NC, we routinely perform spay and neuter surgeries with the highest regard for comfort, safety, and reducing stress.

To discuss spaying/neutering for your pet or to schedule an appointment, call (252) 524-3384 today!

Why Spaying/Neutering Your Pet is Beneficial to Their Health

While mating and reproducing is certainly natural for dogs and cats, there are often consequences that will make life more challenging for the animals involved. More reproducing means more unwanted litters, and more unwanted litters results in more strays and animals in shelters. By spaying and neutering, we can reduce the number of strays being born and therefore ease the strain on shelters.

But this isn’t the only reason we advocate strongly for spaying and neutering. Individual dogs and cats tend to be more at risk for health problems, especially cancer, if they are not spayed or neutered at the right time. Females can develop mammary gland tumors, ovarian and uterine cancer, and pyometra, a potentially life-threatening infection of the uterus. Males can develop testicular tumors and an enlarged prostate.

Intact pets can also be more prone to difficult behaviors, such as urine marking, vocalizing, roaming away to find a mate, and going into heat. With spay and neuter surgery, these behaviors can be significantly lessened or even eliminated.

Tabby With Green Eyes Wearing A Bandana

When Should My Pet be Spayed or Neutered?

Dr. Heath will be happy to talk with you about your pet’s spay/neuter surgery and when it should be performed. Every pet is different and their own unique circumstances, including their age, size, and breed, will help us determine the best time for your pet to undergo their surgery.

In the case of male cats, we recommend waiting until they are at least 6 months old to neuter. This is because their reproductive hormone, testosterone, needs to have as much influence as possible on the size of their urethra. An all-too-common issue for male cats, which often leads to them being left at shelters or euthanized for inappropriate urination, is an underdeveloped urethra. Male cats can end up with small crystals/stones becoming lodged in their urethra, which may be life-threatening. 6 months of age is typically the best time to neuter a male cat because their urethra has had time to mature, but they are not yet ready to start spraying in the house.

Let’s talk about what your pet needs, and what you can expect after their spay or neuter procedure. Call us at (252) 524-3384 to schedule an appointment!