Pet Sterilization: Benefits, Risks, and Considerations
The Benefits of Spaying and Neutering Pets
One of the primary advantages of spaying or neutering pets is that it restores them to a normal, preheat state of life. This correction helps to eliminate behaviors such as inappropriate urination and loud howling, and it also reduces the likelihood of them wandering off.
Two, animals that have been spayed or neutered tend to have a more gentle and affectionate temperament, showing increased loyalty to their owners.
Three, spaying and neutering contributes to a decrease in the number of stray animals. Strays are breeding grounds for diseases like rabies and can serve as mobile sources of infection. A significant reduction in the stray animal population can greatly mitigate the spread of such diseases.
Four, the surgical removal of reproductive organs (ovaries, uterine horns, cervix, part of the uterus, and testicles) serves as a fundamental preventive measure against reproductive system diseases.
Females can prevent conditions such as pyometra, ovarian cysts, follicular cysts, reproductive tumors, false pregnancy, and skin issues. Studies have shown that if spaying is done before the first heat, the risk of breast tumors can be significantly reduced to less than 0.5%. Postfirst heat surgery increases the tumor incidence to 8%, and after two heats, it rises to 26%. There is no preventive effect on breast tumors for animals over 2.5 years old.
Males can reduce the chances of prostatic hyperplasia and infections, decrease the incidence of perineal hernias, and prevent the occurrence of infectious diseases, tumors, perianal adenomas, and reduce urine marking.
The Drawbacks of Spaying and Neutering
One, extensive clinical practice has shown that cats and dogs may gain weight or become obese after being spayed or neutered. A survey revealed that the incidence of obesity is twice as high in spayed or neutered animals due to increased energy intake, reduced energy expenditure, and a decrease in metabolic rate. Therefore, feeding lowcalorie prescription food and increasing the pet's physical activity are crucial after spaying or neutering.
Two, like any surgery, there are inherent risks. Although spaying and neutering are considered minor procedures in today's veterinary medicine, there are still potential risks, especially in brachycephalic breeds.
Three, there is a very small chance of complications such as internal bleeding, infection, and suture detachment.
Four, there is an increased risk of cardiovascular tumors and a higher likelihood of urinary incontinence in female dogs after spaying.
Tip: For more comprehensive information on spaying and neutering for cats and dogs, click to read Cat and Dog Spaying and Neutering Surgery Knowledge.
