Pet Spay & Neuter in Corpus Christi, TX

What Do Spay and Neuter Procedures Involve?

Surgical procedures used to sterilize pets include spaying and neutering. For female pets, the procedure is referred to as a spay, and for male pets, it’s referred to as a neuter.

Spaying

When female pets are spayed, your veterinarian will typically perform an ovariohysterectomy, which involves the removal of both the uterus and the ovaries. A standard hysterectomy, which leaves the ovaries but removes the uterus and some fallopian tubes, prevents pregnancy while preserving the mate-seeking instinct. The heat cycle can also be stopped by merely removing the ovaries and leaving the uterus in place.

Neutering

The routine surgery to neuter a male pet is termed an orchiectomy, during which the dog or cat’s testicles are removed. This reduces unfavorable mating behavior and also renders the pet unable to reproduce. An alternative procedure is a vasectomy, which essentially preserves a male pet’s testicles. The remaining factors are the hormones and associated mating practices.

Benefits of Neutering or Spaying Your Pet

It’s frequently advised to spay or neuter your pet for various reasons. Spay and neuter procedures, for starters, aid with preventing unintended pregnancies and shelter congestion. Numerous health advantages also exist. Pets who are neutered or spayed lower their risk of developing cancer and diseases associated with reproduction. Pets often become more relaxed after getting spayed or neutered.

When to Have Your Pet Neutered or Spayed

Spaying or neutering a young puppy or kitten around 4-6 months old is typically advised before sexual maturation, or a heat cycle occurs if you are just beginning your pet-owning experience. Even if you miss this window, the process is still worthwhile. Some animals are neutered or spayed as young as six weeks, mainly if they are acquired from a shelter where it is common to prevent the adoptions of animals who have not undergone these procedures.

At Southside Animal Hospital, we want you and your pet to have the best possible quality of life together. Before performing any surgical treatment, including spaying or neutering, we make sure your pet is healthy and in good hands. Call Southside Animal Hospital in Corpus Christi, Texas, at 361-993-7388 to arrange an appointment if you’d like to find out more about spaying and neutering and how to make sure the timing is correct.