Every year, millions of pets are euthanised. A large contributing factor to this problem is the number of unwanted litters that are born each year. Pets that are not spayed or neutered are much more likely to produce kittens, exacerbating the pet overpopulation problem.

One way to help reduce the number of homeless pets is to spay or neuter your own animals. This surgical procedure, known as desexing, has many benefits for both pets and their owners. This blog post answers some common questions about pet desexing.

What is desexing?

Desexing, also known as spaying (for females) or castration (for males), is a surgical procedure performed by veterinarians to sterilise animals. The surgery involves removing the animal's reproductive organs so they cannot produce offspring.

Why should I get my pet desexed?

There are many reasons why pet owners choose to have their animals desexed. For one, it prevents unwanted litters from being born. It also reduces the risk of certain health problems and can help improve your pet's overall behaviour. By desexing your pet, you're helping to reduce the number of animals in shelters and giving the other animals a better chance at finding a forever home.

Is desexing risky?

All surgical procedures come with some risk, but desexing is generally a very safe and straightforward procedure. Complications from desexing are rare, but as with any surgery, there is always a small risk of infection or other complications.

How much does it cost?

The cost of desexing varies depending on the animal's size, age and where you live. Some shelters and rescue groups offer low-cost or even free spay/neuter services for pets adopted from them.

When should I get my pet desexed?

For dogs, most veterinarians recommend spaying before the first heat cycle. For cats, it's advisable to spay before they reach sexual maturity. However, there is no upper age limit for either cats or dogs—it's never too late to have your animal sterilised.

Conclusion

Pet overpopulation is a big problem, but it can be prevented by spaying or neutering our furry friends. Desexing has many benefits for both pets and pet owners and is generally a very safe and straightforward procedure. The cost of desexing varies depending on the animal's size, age and where you live, but it is typically affordable. If you're unsure about whether or not to have your pet sterilised, we recommend speaking to a veterinarian familiar with pet desexing for more information. They will be happy to answer any further questions you may have.