Jenny's Jottings: Neutering

Spring is in the air! Lambs are in the fields and birds are building their nests. At this time of year, many animals are reproducing – and our pets are no exception!

This is one reason why neutering is important. Neutering is an operation that involves removing the ovaries and uterus in females and the testes in the male. The procedure therefore prevents an animal from producing unwanted babies – surely a good thing with hundreds of cats and dogs passing through the Leicester RSPCA each year. Neutering will not suit every animal, but those owners who are not planning to breed from their pet may be interested in some of the potential health benefits.

Female dogs have a reduced chance of developing breast cancer if they are neutered before two and a half years of age. In addition, neutering at any age will prevent a serious infection of the uterus called ‘pyometra’. This condition is common and can be fatal if not treated promptly. Both of these diseases are also reduced in cats by neutering.

So what about the boys? Again, there are many benefits of neutering, but people often worry about the emotional effects on their pet. We’ve all heard the joke about why dogs chase balls! But we should consider the role of neutering in prevention of testicular cancer and in reducing prostate disease. In tomcats, neutering can help to reduce aggression and roaming, in turn reducing the likelihood of fighting other cats and having road accidents.

And its not just dogs and cats in the spotlight – rabbits and other small animals can benefit from neutering too.

I do not deny that this rose does have its thorns. Neutering requires a general anaesthetic and complications can occur. However, I honestly believe that the benefits outweigh the risks most of the time. Deciding whether to have a pet neutered can be a difficult choice. After all, they are part of the family. But as spring approaches, it is worth giving it some thought.

By Jenny Jones BVM&S MRCVS, vet at Borrajos Veterinary Clinics