Spay/Neuter Myths, Debunked
Bringing a pet into your home and family's lives requires a great deal of discipline and responsibility. Unfortunately, many people allow their dog or cat to breed, increasing the number of unwanted pets in the world. Choosing to spay/neuter your dog or cat is wise for a few reasons, including preventing overpopulation and keeping your pet healthy. However, most people do not fully understand the spay/neuter procedure or its benefits. This guide will help you learn the truth behind a few common spay and neuter myths.
Myth: Surgery Is Dangerous
Many people feel that spay/neuter surgery is too dangerous for their pet, so they think it is actually safer to NOT have the surgery. While it is an invasive surgical procedure, spaying/neutering your dog or cat can actually be beneficial to their health and wellness.
Recent studies have shown that not only is it beneficial for preventing overpopulation, but spaying/neutering can reduce the risk of developing cancers and some infections. Also, many specialists believe that spaying/neutering improves your dog or cat's behavior, ensuring that they do not run off in search of a mate while they are in heat.
Myth: Spay/Neuter Causes Weight Gain
Obesity can lead to a variety of medical complications, including cardiovascular disease and arthritis, so it is easy to see why you would want to protect your dog or cat's weight. However, you do not need to worry about spaying/neutering causing your dog or cat to gain weight since this is just a myth.
It is important to note that spaying/neutering does decrease sex hormones, which can affect your dog or cat's metabolism. In reality, though, these hormones are not usually the cause of weight gain.
Lack of exercise and consuming unhealthy foods are the main causes of obesity in dogs and cats. If you are concerned about your pet's weight, talk to your veterinarian today about an appropriate diet.
Myth: Spay/Neuter Is Cruel
Finally, there are many people who believe that spay/neuter surgeries are too cruel. You may feel the procedure will take away your male dog's masculinity, or you may feel you are taking the joy of motherhood away from your female pet. Fortunately, you do not have to feel you are being cruel or harming your pet in anyway.
Your pet will be asleep throughout the procedure, so they will not experience any pain or discomfort. In addition, spaying/neutering your dog or cat is showing them you care about their health and wellness, especially since the surgeries can actually benefit their futures.