Pet ownership is one of the most rewarding experiences life has to offer. Of course, it’s not all fun and games because there are many responsibilities that come along new pets. Responsible pet ownership is the key to keeping your pet safe and happy. One of the responsibilities of pet ownership is making the decision to have your cat or dog spayed or neutered. Spaying and neutering are simple surgical sterilization procedures. For female pets, it means removing the entire reproductive system. In male pets, it means removing the testicles. Here’s what leading vets have to say on the subject.

The Benefits of Spaying or Neutering

Eliminating unwanted litters of puppies and kittens is only one benefit of spaying and neutering. Your male pet will feel calmer with less testosterone coursing through his system. You’ll reduce (but not eliminate) humping, and can reduce the size of the prostate in older male pets. Spaying can also help prevent breast tumors and uterine infections in female pets, and prevents them from going into heat.

The Best Age To Neuter

Ideally, your pet should be spayed or neutered at some point between eight weeks and six months of age when puberty starts, but they can be safely spayed or neutered at almost any age. You might need to spay or neuter your pet at a later age in the instance of rescued or adopted pets. Keep in mind that spaying and neutering can also affect the size of your male animals. Talk to your vet about the specific needs of your pet and the optimal age to have the procedure done.

If you have additional questions, don’t hesitate to consult with your vet. When you acquire a new pet, your vet will likely offer to spay or neuter them (unless you have plans to breed it). It’s a simple procedure that will make you and your pet more comfortable, help control the pet population, and improve your pet’s overall health and wellbeing.