Pet Spaying or Neutering
At Crosspointe Animal Hospital, we provide compassionate and professional spay and neuter services to promote a healthier life for your pets while contributing to population control in the local community.
Pet Spay and Neuter in Fairfax Station, VA
Spaying and neutering are essential procedures that play a significant role in your pet’s health and well-being.
What Are Spay and Neuter Procedures?
- Spaying: This surgical procedure removes the ovaries and uterus of female pets, preventing them from going into heat.
- Neutering: This procedure removes the testes in male pets, eliminating their ability to reproduce.
Spaying and neutering provide a range of health and behavioral benefits for pets. Some of the key advantages include:
- Reduces the risk of uterine infections and breast tumors in females.
- Prevents testicular cancer and prostate issues in males.
- Reduces marking, roaming, and aggression in male pets.
- Eliminates heat cycles in female pets, leading to fewer vocalizations and behavioral changes.
Spay & Neuter: Frequently Asked Questions
Let’s look at some of the questions our team runs into regarding spaying and neutering pets.
Is Spaying or Neutering Necessary for My Pet?
As you will discover, the answer to this question can be a bit complex. While the answer may differ for each pet owner, the consensus is that spaying and neutering is a good idea for most pets. Our veterinarians can help you make the best decision for your pet. This means that spaying or neutering your pet is a personal decision that you will need to make with a little help from us.
When Should I Spay or Neuter My Pet?
The general recommendation is that cats can be spayed or neutered before they reach sexual maturity, typically around six months of age. The recommendation for dogs is generally to spay or neuter before the dog’s first heat cycle, which can occur as early as six months of age but is more commonly around 9-12 months. You will need to consult a veterinarian to get a more specific answer for your pet.
What Happens During the Spay or Neuter Procedure?
Spaying is the surgical removal of the ovaries and uterus of a female animal. The procedure is also called an ovariohysterectomy. This surgery is performed on female dogs, cats, and rabbits. Usually, the ovaries and fallopian tubes are removed in addition to the uterus. The procedure generally takes less than 30 minutes. Neutering is a surgery that removes your male cat or dog’s testicles so he is unable to create offspring. Neutering is relatively straightforward and less involved than spaying a female pet.
When Should You Spay or Neuter Your Pet?
Timing for spaying or neutering depends on your pet’s age, breed, and health. Generally, these procedures are recommended between 4-6 months of age, though older pets can still benefit. Our team at Crosspointe Animal Hospital can guide you on the best time based on your pet’s needs.
Schedule Your Pet’s Appointment Today
Taking the step to spay or neuter your pet is an investment in their long-term health and happiness. Contact Crosspointe Animal Hospital in Fairfax Station, VA to schedule an appointment. Let us help you give your pet the best possible care.