Spay and Neuter in Herndon, VA
Spay and neuter surgery for cats and dogs has a wide range of benefits that go beyond the obvious of avoiding unwanted litters. By removing your pet’s reproductive organs, they avoid the risk of dangerous cancers and diseases, as well as live longer, happier lives when not ruled by their desire to mate. Additionally, fewer unwanted litters mean fewer pets in shelters who may never find a home, so spaying and neutering your pet has benefits beyond your cat or dog. At Franklin Farm Veterinary Clinic in Herndon, we offer safe, effective surgeries for your pets. Give us a call at (703) 435-3335 to further discuss spay and neuter surgery and to schedule an appointment.
The Benefits of Spay and Neuter Surgery in Herndon VA
With a spay and neuter surgery, your pet becomes a better, healthier companion. They receive both medical and behavioral benefits that allow them to spend more quality time with you. Some of the benefits include:
Females:
- No heat cycles
- No desire to roam to find a mate
- Less likely to exhibit urine-marking behavior
- Reduced risk of mammary gland tumors
- No risk of pyometra, a dangerous uterine infection
- No risk of ovarian, cervical, or uterine cancers
Males:
- Lessened aggression
- No desire to roam to find a mate
- Less likely to exhibit urine-marking behavior
- Less likely to exhibit mounting behavior
- Reduced risk of prostate problems
- No risk of testicular cancer
When to Have Your Dog and Cat Spayed or Neutered
The general timeline for a dog or cat spay or neuter surgery is at about 6 months of age. However, different factors warrant an earlier or later surgery. For instance, female pets receive more health benefits if they are spayed before their first heat cycle, which can occur as early as 4 months of age in kittens. Therefore, an earlier spay is better for their long-term health. Meanwhile, some larger breed dogs are better off if they have a later surgery after they have reached the end of their growth phase. Reproductive hormone help control their growth rate, so a later surgery at about 12-18 months of age is ideal. Please schedule an appointment at (703) 435-3335 for your puppy or kitten to discuss their options and an appropriate timeline that will benefit them best!