If you have a young pet, you’ve probably heard a lot about the need to spay or neuter them. However, the whole process might be overwhelming. At Ambassador Animal Hospital in Columbia, SC, our State Abbreviation veterinarian can help you through the process of spaying and neutering your pets. Following are the answers to several questions we frequently receive about the process.
What are Spaying and Neutering?
When you spay or neuter your pet, you remove parts of its reproductive organs. This is a surgical procedure that is done under general anesthesia. For female animals, the veterinarian removes the uterus and ovaries. For males, they remove the testes out of the scrotum. It is a simple procedure that requires a few weeks of recovery time in the aftermath. Your pet will need a lot of rest, as well as protection to keep them from damaging their stitches or harming the incision.
Why Is It Necessary?
Spaying and neutering are done to prevent pregnancy. People spay and neuter to avoid the costs and responsibilities involved in having a litter of puppies or kittens. It also helps the female avoid the health risks involved with pregnancy.
When you spay or neuter your pet, it also reduces certain health risks. Some tumors and cancers are more common in unfixed animals than in fixed ones. So by removing the reproductive organs, you provide your pet the assurance that they won’t get these illnesses. It can also prevent reproduction-related behaviors like roaming or aggression.
When Should I Do It?
While spaying and neutering are generally done when the animal is young, the best time to do it will depend on several factors. The species, breed, and health of the animal will determine if they are ready. While it can be done after about five months, that doesn’t mean that the animal is fully ready. If you’re considering spaying and neutering your pet, you need to discuss it with our veterinarian. We will help you figure out the safest and most effective time to do it.
Schedule an Appointment with Our Veterinarian in Columbia, SC
At Ambassador Animal Hospital, we have provided residents of Columbia, SC, with spaying and neutering services for many years. Call us today at (803) 787-3840 for more information or to schedule an appointment with our veterinarian.