Spaying or neutering is one of most important surgeries your dog or cat will ever have. These surgeries not only sterilize your pets, but also make them healthier in the long run. At Cordova Station Animal Hospital in Cordova, TN, we provide spay and neuter procedures to keep your pet safe and healthy.

What Are Spaying and Neutering?

Spaying is for female pets and neutering is for males. Spaying is removing the ovaries and uterus of a female cat or dog. Neutering removes the testicles. Another commonly used term for neutering is fixing.

Both of these surgeries are usually done under general anesthesia. As a general rule, spaying costs more than neutering, since the female’s abdomen needs to be opened up.

When Should Dogs and Cats Be Neutered or Spayed?

Kittens can be spayed or neutered as young as eight weeks old, provided they are healthy. It’s important for them to have the operation before they are old enough to reproduce. A female kitten can get pregnant at as young as four months old.

Female puppies can get spayed when they are about four to six months old. Male puppies can be neutered at eight weeks old, as long as they are healthy. Many prefer to wait until they are at least six months old to be sure they are healthy enough.

Health Benefits

Both female dogs and cats are prone to serious uterine infections as they age. Removing the uterus removes this potentially fatal problem. When a female puppy or kitten is spayed before her first heat, she is far less likely to develop breast cancer in later life.

Male dogs and cats will escape their homes looking for mates. They can pick fights with other animals or get hit by cars. Getting them fixed lessens their desire to wander and keeps them close to home.

Schedule an Appointment with Our Veterinarians in Cordova, TN

If your pet needs to be spayed or neutered, we can help. At Cordova Station Animal Hospital in Cordova, TN, we want to keep your pets happy and healthy. Our veterinarians, Dr. Sanders and Dr. Warner, will answer any questions you have. Call us today to schedule an appointment.