Here at Wings and Paws Rescue we often get asked ''why neuter, we're not going to breed?''
Here are some of the many reasons we should neuter our dogs and cats.
Spaying female dogs and cats will greatly reduce the risk of them getting breast cancers and infection of the womb (pyometra) – both of which are common and frequently fatal conditions in older, unspayed females and we should not forget that both pregnancy and giving birth carry significant risks too. Many bitches will have a false pregnancy following their season. While this is natural, it can lead to behavioural problems.
Unspayed females will often fight for dominance, even the bestest of buddies may suddenly decide to fight to the death, by spaying them - the urge to fight is reduced dramatically!
In male dogs castration will significantly reduce the incidence of prostate disease and reduce the risk of some cancers. Neutering male dogs and cats reduces their urge to roam and to fight and are therefore less likely to go missing or suffer wounds from fights. For male cats, neutering reduces their chance of catching Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV), an incurable viral disease, similar to HIV in humans, which is spread by saliva, most frequently from bite wounds while fighting.
Pets which are not neutered and are confined can become frustrated and unhappy. They will often make determined efforts to escape especially if a female in heat nearby.
As a rescue, we will not rehome any of our dogs or cats with you, if you have an unspayed/unneutered dog/cat in the home - this is for the safety of all concerned.
If you are thinking of neutering your pets, contact you nearest veterinary practice for further advice and support.