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Neutering

Neutering advise you on what is best for you and your pet from your local Island Vets

Contrary to popular belief, allowing a bitch or a queen to have a litter has no benefit to the animal. Therefore in this practice we recommend neutering of female dogs and cats that are not of breeding stock. The neutering of rabbits and other small furries is also advised as detailed below.

Bitches

Procedure: Both the ovaries and uterus (womb) are removed.

  • Recommended from six months of age
  • Can be done at any stage of the bitch’s life
  • Should be avoided during oestrus/pregnancy. Preferably 4 months post-season

The advantages are:

  • Elimination of heat/season
  • No false pregnancies
  • Will not develop pyometra
  • Reduced incidence of mammary tumours

The disadvantages that might occur are:

  • Tendency to put on weight – require less food
  • Changes in coat texture/colour e.g. fluffy coat in Spaniels
  • Urinary incontinence: not common but can occur mainly in larger bitches

Male dogs

  • Advised from 6 months onwards
  • Procedure: Both testicles are removed

The advantages are:

  • Elimination of unsociable sexual tendencies
  • Less inclined to wander
  • Prostate problems eliminated
  • Reduction in incidence of anal adenomas
  • Reduces aggression

The disadvantages are:

  • Weight problems
  • Coat changes

This practice recommends that cats of both sexes, if not required for breeding, should be neutered at an early age. Indiscriminate breeding leads to many stray kittens. (Note: there are fewer problems with weight gain after neutering in cats than in dogs.)

Queens

Procedure: Both ovaries and uterus (womb) removed.

  • Usually done via a flank incision but may be mid-line if owner requests
  • From 4 months onwards
  • Can be done in season or when pregnant

Tomcats

  • Both testicles are removed – this is not a vasectomy.
  • From 4 months onwards

This practice recommends neutering of rabbits if they are not used for breeding stock to prevent health-related problems, including tesiticular and ovarian cancers/infections. Neutering also tends to assist with behavioural issues owners tend to find with more than 1 rabbit housed together.

Male

  • Can be done from the age of 4 months (and minimum weight of at least one kilo)
  • Both testicles removed

Female

  • Can be done from the age of 4 months (and mimimum weight of one kilo)
  • Mid-line incision made and the uterus including ovaries are removed

We offer help and advice on any neutering procedures you may be considering for your pet, as well as all aftercare and health advice for your pet during and after treatment. For more information, call your local Island Veterinary practice, or use our enquiry form.