Why Neutering Cats & Dogs: Beyond Production Concerns

Part 1: Why Should Male Cats and Dogs Be Neutered?

1. Alleviating Suffering

Unneutered male cats and dogs can experience immense discomfort during their mating season. Due to hormonal fluctuations, they may become restless and exhibit behaviors such as howling at night, aggression, destruction, and even attacking humans. To cope with this discomfort, they may also engage in activities like mounting furniture, which can lead to injuries and infections if not addressed promptly.

2. Reducing Diseases

The mating season for male cats and dogs is longer than that of females, leading to prolonged suffering. If they are unable to mate, the risk of developing testicular tumors, inguinal hernias, and various prostate diseases increases. In fact, nearly half of male dogs will begin to show signs of prostate enlargement by the age of 45. Unneutered male dogs may experience symptoms such as frequent urination, blood in urine, and difficulty urinating as they age.

3. Minimizing Disturbances

Male cats and dogs tend to be more territorial during their mating season, leading them to mark their territory by urinating everywhere. They may also try to escape the house in search of a mate, which can expose them to unknown cats and dogs, increasing the risk of infections like canine distemper, parvovirus, coronavirus, and even rabies. Additionally, they may fight over mating rights, leading to severe injuries.

Part 2: Is It True That Neutered Cats and Dogs Are Prone to Weight Gain?

Many pet owners are concerned about their cats and dogs gaining weight after being neutered, as overweight pets are more susceptible to heart disease, diabetes, and hypertension.

Statistically, neutered cats and dogs are indeed more prone to weight gain. However, weight gain is not a direct side effect of the neutering surgery. Instead, hormonal changes after neutering can lead to increased appetite and reduced activity levels. If pets are allowed to eat freely, they may easily gain weight and develop obesity. Therefore, pet owners should be vigilant about controlling their pets' food intake and preventing them from overeating.

After neutering, it is essential to pay attention to the wound care of cats and dogs. If an infection occurs, it is important to seek medical attention promptly. For more information on this topic, you can refer to "What to Do If Your Cat's Neutering Wound Inflames."