Spayneuter

Spay-neuter is the term used to describe the surgical sterilization of companion animals, most commonly cats and dogs, to prevent reproduction. The term combines two procedures: spaying, which is the removal of ovaries (and usually the uterus) in female animals, and neutering, which is the removal of the testes in male animals. In everyday usage, spay-neuter refers to both operations as a set.

The procedures are performed by a licensed veterinary surgeon, usually under general anesthesia. A spay typically involves ovariohysterectomy, while a neuter involves orchidectomy. Both operations are elective, with expected recovery times measured in days to a couple of weeks. Recommended age and timing vary by species, breed, health, and local policy; many shelters perform spay-neuter at around 8 to 16 weeks for small or underweight animals, and typically around 5 to 7 months for many dogs.

Benefits of spay-neuter include substantial reductions in unwanted litters, contributing to lower shelter populations and euthanasia rates. Health benefits can include decreased risk of reproductive cancers and certain infections in females, and reduced risk of testicular cancer and some behaviors influenced by testosterone in males. Behavioral changes may include less roaming and marking, though behavior is influenced by multiple factors.

Risks are generally low when performed by trained professionals, but as with any surgery there are anesthesia and surgical risks such as infection or bleeding. Timing debates exist, particularly regarding early-age procedures in certain breeds. Spay-neuter is commonly part of broader animal welfare strategies, including owner education, vaccination, parasite control, and, in some areas, trap-neuter-return programs for feral cats.