The Importance of Spaying and Neutering: What Pet Owners Need to Know (Part 1)
At Westway Animal Clinic, we are committed to providing the best possible care for your pets. We are dedicated to fostering lasting connections between pets and their families, ensuring every animal receives the highest standard of veterinary care. One of the most important decisions you can make for your furry friend’s health is whether and when to spay or neuter them. These procedures offer numerous benefits, not just for individual pets but also for the larger pet community.
Why Spay or Neuter Your Pet?
Spaying (for females) and neutering (for males) help prevent unwanted litters, reduce certain health risks, and can improve behavior. Here’s how these procedures benefit your pet:
- Health Benefits:
- Reduces the risk of mammary tumors in female pets.
- Eliminates the risk of uterine infections (pyometra) in females.
- Decreases the likelihood of testicular cancer and prostate issues in males.
- Behavioral Benefits:
- Reduces roaming tendencies, decreasing the chances of accidents or injuries.
- Helps prevent aggressive behaviors and territorial marking in males.
- Decreases the risk of excessive vocalization and heat-related behaviors in females.
- Population Control:
- Reduces the number of unwanted litters, helping control the stray pet population.

When Should You Spay or Neuter Your Pet?
The American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) provides evidence-based guidelines for the optimal timing of these procedures:
- Small-Breed Dogs (under 20 kg):
- Neutering is recommended at six months of age.
- Spaying should ideally occur before the first heat cycle, around five to six months.
- Large-Breed Dogs (over 20 kg):
- Neutering is recommended when growth is complete, typically between 9 to 15 months.
- Spaying can be done between 5 to 15 months, with specific timing based on lifestyle and disease risk.
- Cats:
- The AAHA supports the “Fix Felines by Five” initiative, recommending sterilization by five months of age.
Global Guidelines on Spaying and Neutering
The World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA) also provides valuable insights into reproductive control in dogs and cats. Their recent guidelines emphasize an individualized approach to spaying and neutering, considering:
- The pet’s breed and size.
- Their overall health and medical history.
- The risk factors for certain diseases associated with sterilization. For more details, you can review WSAVA’s summary here: WSAVA Executive Summary.
Scientific Insights: What Does Research Say?
Recent studies on the effects of neutering have highlighted the need for an individualized approach. A systematic review published in the Journal of Small Animal Practice examined the impact of spaying and neutering on mammary tumors in dogs. The study suggested that while early spaying may have some protective benefits, the overall evidence remains inconclusive. (Read more on PubMed)
Talk to Us About Your Pet’s Needs
At Westway Animal Clinic, we understand that every pet is unique. We are here to help you make informed decisions about your pet’s health and well-being. If you have questions about the best time to spay or neuter your pet, schedule a consultation with us today.
Coming Up in Part 2
In our next blog, we will discuss Ovary-Sparing Spay vs. Traditional Ovariohysterectomy (OVH), comparing the benefits and risks of each procedure to help you make the best decision for your pet.
We look forward to helping you keep your pet happy and healthy!
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