SPAYING VERSUS NEUTERING

The terms ‘spaying’ and ‘neutering’ are often used interchangeable. However, do dogs and cats get spayed or neutered? Or is there a difference between dogs and bitches or between tomcats and queens? And are rabbits neutered? It’s time for some explanation. In this article, we explain the differences between spaying and neutering of dogs, cats and rabbits.

For a bitch, queen or female rabbit, we use the term ‘spaying’. When a bitch, queen or female rabbit gets spayed, her ovaries are removed and sometimes her uterus as well. In this way, the female animal will no longer be able to reproduce, and your pet will no longer produce sex hormones.

For a dog, tomcat or male rabbit, we use the term ‘neutering’. When a male animal gets neutered, the testicles are removed. This makes him unable to reproduce and the production of sex hormones will be ceased.

Neutering and spaying could have positive effects on your pet’s health and behavior. Spaying a bitch, queen or female rabbit could reduce the risk of mammary tumors, pyometra and diabetes. Moreover, spaying will prevent false pregnancies and heat periods. For dogs, tomcats and male rabbits, neutering reduces the risk of testicular cancer and prostate problems.

 Furthermore, neutering could reduce certain behavior problems with dogs, tomcats and rabbits. This concerns behavior like roaming, mounting, spraying or sexual induced aggression. Moreover, for bitches and queens, spaying prevents heat cycles and false pregnancy and all associated behavioral effects.

We advise to make a deliberate choice of whether or not to spay or neuter. Please consult your pet’s vet or behavioral therapist to discuss the advantages and disadvantages of neutering and spaying.

Neutering aftercare

If your pet has been spayed or neutered, aftercare is essential for a fast and good recovery. Protect your dog, cat or rabbit with the Medical Pet Shirt®, the animal-friendly alternative for the collar. In the article ‘Neutering aftercare’, you can read more about how to protect your pet after neutering or spaying.