SPAYING VERSUS NEUTERING

The terms ‘spaying’ and ‘neutering’ are often used interchangeable. However, do dogs and cats get spayed or neutered? Or is there a difference between dogs and bitches or between tomcats and queens? It’s time for some explanation. In this article, we explain the differences between spaying and neutering of dogs, cats and rabbits.

For a bitch or queen, we use the term ‘spaying’. When a bitch or queen gets spayed, her ovaries are removed and sometimes her uterus as well. In this way, the female animal will no longer be able to reproduce, and your pet will no longer produce sex hormones.

For a dog or tomcat, we use the term ‘neutering’. When a male animal gets neutered, the vet removes his testicles. This makes the pet unable to reproduce and the production of sex hormones will be ceased.

Neutering and spaying could have positive effects on your pet’s health and behavior. For instance, spaying a bitch or queen could reduce the risk of mammary tumors, pyometra and diabetes. Moreover, spaying will prevent false pregnancies and heat periods. For dogs and tomcats, neutering reduces the risk of testicular cancer and prostate problems.

Furthermore, neutering could reduce certain behavior problems with dogs and tomcats. This concerns for example roaming, mounting, spraying or sexual induced aggression. Moreover, for bitches and queens, spaying prevents heat cycles and false pregnancy and all associated behavioral effects.

We advise to make a deliberate choice of whether or not to spay or neuter. Please consult your pet’s vet or behavioral therapist to discuss the advantages and disadvantages of neutering and spaying.

Neutering aftercare

If your pet has been spayed or neutered, aftercare is essential for a fast and good recovery. Therefore, protect your dog or cat with the Recovery Suit®, the animal-friendly alternative for the collar. In the article ‘Neutering aftercare’, you can read more about how to protect your pet after neutering or spaying.