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The “Age-Old” Discussion: When is it Best to Spay and Neuter Your Pet?
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H E A L T H & W E L L N E S S
WRITTEN BY: MEREDITH JONES, DVM PET HELPERS SPAY & NEUTER CLINIC
When a family adopts a new puppy or kitten, there are many discussions the owner might have with their family veterinarian in regards to their new family member. Conversations concerning vaccinations, deworming, house training, chewing, etc.. might come up during those first visits as well as the very common discussion of when the best time is to spay or neuter their particular animal.
The spay/neuter argument has become a hot topic as of late, but it has been going on for decades. Pet sterilization has generally been promoted as a way to end pet overpopulation and needless euthanasia. This thought has generally been successful and has significantly decreased the number of animals euthanized in shelters yearly. In recent years, there have been several studies completed at different veterinary schools involving the appropriate age of sterilization, often for specific breeds. These seem to question the validity of spay/neuter and may at times promote abandoning the practice for some animals all together due to the possible risks associated. This really raises the question of what is the best practice in regards to spay/neuter. While several studies have been completed, they point to a greater need for more research for a more complete picture to answer what is truly “right and wrong”. While these studies are beneficial, they also show the need for more research with less variability and more consistency. The research that has been performed shows both positives and negatives to the spay-neuter question. For example, it presents that while early sterilization (often prior to the first heat cycle) can significantly reduce the possibility of mammary cancer and pyometra (infection of the uterus) in female dogs and cats, it has also been linked to an increase in certain cancers and orthopedic conditions, especially in large breed dogs. However, research has also shown that sterilized animals generally live longer than their unsterilized counterparts and are less likely to die from infection and trauma. In a quote from Deconstructing the Spay/Neuter Debate, Dr. Philip Bushby states,
“What’s too often missing from the discussion is that spay/neuter decisions shouldn’t be based on the impact on a small handful of diseases. Instead, we must look at the overall health and longevity of the animal.”
Many questions have also been brought up about pediatric spay/neuter (puppies and kittens sterilized as early as 6 weeks old). Research studies at both Texas A&M and Cornell have shown that there is no correlation between pediatric spay/neuter and any long-term detrimental health effects.
The facts out there can certainly create some questions in the mind of the concerned pet parent to make the best and safest decision for their individual animal. While the correct age for when to spay/neuter is ultimately up to what the client desires, it is recommended to discuss with your veterinarian what will be best for your animal.
There is no perfect or right answer for every animal. Generally, you have to base your decision off the individual needs of that animal and research.
Dr. Meredith Jones examining a patient at Pet Helpers Spay and Neuter Clinic
Here are some helpful facts we do know: spayed and neutered animals generally live longer, they have a decreased chance of dying from infections and trauma, they have reduced risk of certain cancers involving sexual organs, they have decreased desire to roam, generally less aggression, and sterilized animals cannot produce unwanted litters. Yes, research shows that spay/neuter can increase the chance of some orthopedic disease and cancers, however; research has been done on mostly all purebred animals and proves that more research is needed.
Dr. Bushby’s article has a good summary for what spay/neuter recommendations can be made with our current understanding of what is “the best practice:”
Shelter Dog or Cat (male or female) – prior to adoption, as young as 6 weeks of age
Feral/Community Cat – trap/neuter/return (to field) at any age after 6 weeks
Owned Cat (male or female) – prior to 5 months of age
Owned Dog (small breed, male or female) – prior to 5 months of age
Owned Dog (large-breed, female) – prior to 5 months of age
Owned Dog (large-breed, male, free roaming) – prior to 5 months of age
Owned Dog (large-breed, male, inside) – after growth has finished between 15-18 months
In summary, there is much research to be done in the area of canine/feline spay neuter and much that could change. Ultimately, spaying and neutering your feline or canine friend is generally what is best for them and the community. However, the best practice is always to discuss your options with your veterinarian and make your decision off of what is best for your animal. ■
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