Your pet relies on you for a variety of needs, from food to love and comfort. To ensure your furry family member’s total well-being, it’s necessary to have them spayed or neutered. This simple surgical procedure is safe and effective — and has notable health benefits. Find out why you shouldn’t delay talking to your veterinarian about this procedure.

3 Benefits of Spaying or Neutering Your Pet

1. Prevent Potentially Fatal Illnesses

Early spaying has been shown to decrease the risk of uterine infections and breast cancer in female cats and dogs. For males, neutering safeguards against testicular cancer and an enlarged prostate gland. Some of these ailments can be deadly if not promptly treated. 

2. Avoid Behavioral Issues

A female cat or dog who hasn’t been fixed will go into heat, which can cause them to urinate more frequently — sometimes inside — and bark or yowl in search of a mate. A fixed cat or dog is less likely to fight and won’t roam, which can increase their risk of getting lost or hit by a car.

3. Support a Healthy Pet Community

Some 1.5 million cats and dogs are euthanized in the United States every year. It’s a sad fact but a powerful testament to the value of spay and neuter operations, which are an easy and cost-effective way to fight pet overpopulation. This also keeps unwanted strays off the streets, where they live difficult lives and pose a threat to the community, as they can prey on wildlife, scare kids, and carry diseases. 

To schedule a spay or neuter appointment for your puppy or kitten, trust Dr. Timothy Henehan of Wards Corner Animal Hospital. Located in Loveland, OH, this animal hospital serves pet owners throughout the Cincinnati area, providing compassionate care for cats, dogs, birds, and exotic pets. Dr. Henehan and his team believe animals deserve the same level of compassionate care as humans and are known for going the extra mile — they even offer house calls. Learn about their services online. For an appointment, call (513) 683-2883.