Read About Neutering Your Small Pet

The familiar old adage “the more, the merrier” is not necessarily applicable in all situations and in the case of an ever-growing overpopulation of unwanted animals, there are a myriad of reasons to consider neutering your small pet - the most obvious being the prevention of pregnancy and reproduction.

NeuteringImage your small pet can easily eliminate or reduce the incidence of a number of health related issues that can be very complicated and/or expensive to treat, such as diseases of the reproductive system – many of which can pose a life-threatening risk to your small pet. A female small animal that is neutered before her first estrous cycle has a substantially reduced risk of developing ovarian, uterine, or breast cancer. In addition, the threat of developing pyometra – a serious infection of the uterus – is eliminated once the procedure of neutering your small pet has been performed. Males are also subject to a number of hormone-related medical issues, especially as they age. They may develop prostate, perianal, and testicular cancers. Neutering greatly reduces the risk and incidence of these diseases, as well.

A number of behavioral issues can be resolved or minimized by neutering your small pet. Some small animals – male and female – will mark their territory by spraying urine on vertical surfaces. Although the spraying of urine is a sexual behavior, if it continues for an extended period of time it may become a troublesome habit – and not one easily corrected, even with eventual neutering.

The majority of aggressive or fighting behavior in small animals is territorial by nature. Both small animal sexes (especially a pregnant female) will forcefully defend their established territory – often resulting in serious injury or even death. No doubt about it, neutered small animals not only make a better pet for their owner, but they also get along better with other small animals, as well. Multiple small animalsImage can often be housed together, if neutered, and live quite peaceably under the same roof – since there is less fighting over territory and mates.

Once you have considered the numerous health benefits and made the decision that neutering your small pet is wise in many ways – for you and your special companion – you will want to make an appointment with your veterinarian. He or she can fully explain the neutering process, discuss the cost involved with the procedure, and answer any questions you may have regarding pre and post operative small animal care.