In addition to unwanted pregnancies, there are a number of health and welfare benefits, such as reducing the risk of certain cancers and infections or alleviating behavioural issues.

The thought of removing reproductive organs can be concerning for owners, but both spaying (removal of the womb and ovaries) and castration (removal of the testicles) are relatively straightforward procedures.  Both are carried out under general anaesthetic and pets tend to recover quickly.

Whilst owners often consider having their dogs and cats neutered, it can also be good for other animals such as rabbits, guinea pigs and ferrets to be neutered. 

UK animal charities are facing unprecedented demands for care for unwanted animals.  According to the RSPCA, the UK cat population in particular is at a crisis point, with approximately 80% of litters unplanned.  It is therefore particularly important for owners to have their cats neutered.

 

What benefits are there in having my female pet neutered?

• Menstruation or seasons stop, reducing mess
• The risk of unwanted pregnancies and/or litters is removed
• False pregnancies are prevented
• Mammary or breast problems are reduced
• Womb infections are prevented
• Theft of a neutered female is less likely (by those wanting to use them in ‘puppy farms’)
• Avoids expense from pregnancy-related costs as well as the cost of any offspring

 

What benefits are there in having my male pet neutered?

• Prostate issues are reduced
• Neutered males are less likely to be aggressive
• Testicular cancer is prevented
• The urge to roam to find a female which is in season is reduced
• Unwanted behaviour, such as mounting other animals and humans, is reduced
• Urine marking is reduced
• The risk of insurance claims from owners of a female which becomes pregnant is removed

 

When is the right time to have my pet neutered?

We will happily advise you on the right time to have your pet neutered.  We continually monitor up-to-date research and will be able to assess your pet on an individual basis.  Factors such as breed, weight, health conditions and behaviour will impact our recommendation.  If a female pet has had her first season, it is important to know exactly when it was to ensure we neuter at the correct time to avoid hormonal problems.

Generally, cats and rabbits can be neutered from around 4 months.  Dogs can be neutered from anywhere between 6 months to 18 months, depending on their breed size.  Male rats may be neutered as early as 8-12 weeks old, with ferrets from 5 or 6 months old.

Talk to us about your thoughts on neutering when you bring your furry friend for their first consultation, whether that is when they are a baby or later in life.

 

What is the cost to have my pet neutered?

If you have a young dog or cat, it is cost-effective to consider our Puppy and Kitten plans.  Our Puppy Plans offer 10% off the cost of neutering and neutering within our Kitten Plan is included.  If you have adopted an older animal, our Top to Tail Plan also offers 10% off neutering. 

You may not have had your pet neutered for a number of reasons, and if you don’t want to make use of the additional benefits of our Top Pet Club plans, our standard neutering costs can be found here.

 

As with all issues related to your furry friends, we are happy to discuss them with you during a standard consultation or at another time.  Our contact details are here.