Common Questions About Spay and Neuter

When you acquire a new pet, it’s important to help keep him or her happy and healthy. At Southside Veterinary Hospital in Vero Beach, FL, we offer a variety of services, such as spaying and neutering, to keep your pet safe from disease and improve its well-being. Before visiting us, take a look at some commonly asked questions regarding these surgeries below:

Which Animals Can Be Spayed or Neutered?

Many pets can be spayed or neutered, even some pets you may not realize benefit from the procedure. Cats and dogs are the most frequently spayed and neutered animals, but the procedure can also be performed on rabbits, pigs, sheep, goats, and other animals.

What Happens When a Pet Is Spayed?

Female animals undergo spay surgery, which makes them infertile. Your pet will be put under anesthesia, so she will be asleep and not able to feel anything. Our vets will then make a small incision in your pet’s skin, through which your pet’s uterus and ovaries will be removed.

What Happens When a Pet Is Neutered?

Male pets undergo neutering. We will place your pet under anesthesia to make a small incision in the scrotum. The testicles are removed, ensuring that your pet will not be able to impregnate a female.

When Should You Spay or Neuter Your Pet?

It is a good idea to bring your pet to our vets ahead of time for the best estimate. Generally, pets are best spayed or neutered in the first six months of life.

Why Should Pet Owners Consider This Procedure?

Pet owners should consider a spay or neuter procedure for their pets because millions of animals are euthanized each year as a result of overpopulation. Shelters are often at capacity, and the procedure prevents your pets from contributing to the number of homeless pets in need.

Female pets benefit from being spayed because they do not go into heat. Female cats become more aggressive when they are in heat, and they can also make a lot of yowling noises in an attempt to attract male cats to your home. Spaying can prevent female dogs from roaming, and it may even reduce the risk of certain cancers.

Male animals also become aggressive when they are not neutered. They can also spray their territory to mark it with urine, creating an unpleasant home environment. Along with that, males are less likely to roam in search of females.

Contact us for an Appointment Today

If you’re seeking a veterinarian near me that offers spaying and neutering, contact Southside Veterinary Hospital in Vero Beach, FL, at (772) 562-7845 today. Our team is happy to tell you more about these procedures and set you up with an appointment. We look forward to helping your pet live a happy and active life!