What differences is their between neutering a cat and dog?
The average female dog comes on ‘heat’ twice yearly. This may last for 1 month. During this time, a bitch is ready for mating and pregnancy may result. Spaying is now a routine operation, performed under general anesthetic. Female dogs are generally spayed about 6 months of age, but your pet can be spayed at any age. As well as making your dog less likely to stray, dog’s tend to be less aggressive and less likely to fight, and often more amenable to training. Castrated dogs will not develop testicular cancer, and are far less likely to have prostate trouble or anal tumours.
Neutering a Cat
The male operation (castration) is very straightforward and usually doesn’t require stitches. The female operation (spaying or hysterectomy) is also a common procedure, which involves removing the ovaries and womb through a small incision in the cat’s side or belly. She may only need to wear a collar if she starts picking or nibbling at her stitches. Both operations are carried out under a general anaesthetic. Kittens and cats are generally neutered at any time from around five to six months onwards. The operation can be carried out on cats aged 5 months or older. Our vets can advise you on your particular pet.
