MYTHS AND TRUTHS ABOUT SPAY AND NEUTER By Mary Hatfield LVMT, M.Ed., LAT Companion Animals Initiative of Tennessee

What is spaying and neutering? A female dog or cat is spayed by surgically removing her ovaries and uterus. (ovariohysterectomy) The term, “neutering” can apply to sterilization for males or females. Usually refers o sterilization of the ale (castration or orchiectomy)

What are the physical results of these surgical procedures? In the female dog or cat, the ovaries and uterus are removed. This will end the heat cycles, thus there will be no more pregnancies. In the male dog or cat, the testicles are surgically removed. This will result in the lack of sperm production and the cessation of testosterone production.

At what age should my pet be spayed or neutered? The average age for sterilizing your pet is 5 – 9 months. Many veterinarians are sterilizing pets as young as 8 weeks with no ill effects. Puppies and kittens recover quicker from surgery than adults. Sterilizing puppies and kittens before 4 months of age will assure that they will not have a first heat cycle.

What are the heat cycles in dogs? During this time: In Dogs, the heat cycle can begin as early as 5 months, with average 6-9 months. The dog will stay in heat for approximately 21 days. She will pass blood from the genital area. She may become irritable and loose her appetite. She will urinate more. She must be carefully confined. Most Fences are not sufficient protection from determined males. Male dogs will be attracted to the female, thus will be a nuisance, when gathered in the area where the female dog is kept.

What is the heat cycle in cats? Cats can come in heat as early as 4.5 months. Cats come in heat when the daylight hours are longer.

What is the heat cycle in cats? Cats come heat every 21 days from February-October(in the Southeast). She will stay in heat approximately 1 week. Cats kept indoors may come in heat all year long, because of artificial lights provide longer light hours. Female cats will show an obvious behavior change while in heat. She will yowl, roll on the floor and posture with rear end higher than the front end. She will attempt to escape to the outside.

How old is too old, to have my dog or cat sterilized? Pets are never too old for sterilization. Pets that are sterilized have a greatly reduced risk of testicular and ovarian tumors in later years of life. Extra precautions will be taken with older dogs and pain meds are available.

Will the surgery be painful? Spaying and neutering is performed under general anesthesia. Some animals will have some discomfort following surgery. Pain medications may be prescribed. Mature male and female dogs may lick at the incision. If so ask the vet for advice. Pets will need to be kept in a dry place and have limited exercise, following surgery.

Misconceptions about spaying and neutering. My pet should come in heat before she can be spayed. It is actually better for her to be spayed before her first cycle because this will reduce the incidence for mammary tumors.

Misconceptions My pet will get fat and lazy. With the removal of testosterone and estrogen, some animals will have a slower metabolism. The owner needs to reduce the amount of food accordingly. When sterilized at a young age, most animals will continue to stay active.

Misconceptions My dog will not guard my home after having the surgery. Dogs will continue to protect their property. The only behaviors that will change are those controlled by the sex hormones. It is recommended to neuter or spay an aggressive animal, in an attempt to reduce the aggressive behavior. Sterilization may not stop the aggressive behavior because aggressive tendencies may be caused by environment or lack of training rather than sexual reasons

I want my children to see puppies or kittens born. There is a pet population explosion today. Animal shelters are euthanizing animals by the hundreds of thousands daily because there are not enough homes. It will be difficult to find good homes for the puppies or kittens, where they will be spayed and neutered.

Advantages to spaying female cats and dogs Will not have a heat cycle Will not be able to reproduce Will not affect protectiveness Will not get ovarian or uterine cancer Will not have dangerous uterine infections Lessens tendency to fight with other animals

Advantages to neutering male dogs and cats Will not be able to reproduce Will not mark territory by urinating or spraying Will reduce aggressive behaviors that stem from sexual tendencies Will be less likely to roam and get into dog and cat fights Will not get testicular tumors and reduces incidence of prostate inflammation Will reduce inappropriate behavior like “humping” on humans

What is the cost of spaying and neutering? The fees vary from one area to another. Check with local veterinarians. This is a one-time fee and it is dependent on the size of the animal. In many communities, you will receive a reduced price for your pet’s license if it is sterilized. Check with your local animal shelter or humane society for programs for low-income families.

Spaying and neutering is good for everyone. Remember that your pet is your financial and emotional responsibility. You should start a “pet budget” when you get your pet. Check with your vet about the costs of owning a pet and be prepared. Pets give a lifetime of joy and service.

For more information, please contact CAIT www. vet. utk For more information, please contact CAIT www.vet.utk.edu/cait cait@utk.edu 865-755-2276