Every pet owner knows that they’ll have to make lots of important decisions for their pet’s health as time goes on. One of the first choices you’ll have to navigate is whether or not to spay or neuter your pet. You may have heard varying information about this procedure, but veterinary experts agree that it’s one of the best things you can do for your pet. Here’s why it’s so important to spay or neuter your cat or dog. 

Health Advantages

There are clear health advantages to spaying or neutering your pet. One of the most beneficial is the reduced risk of certain cancers. For example, female pets do not have to worry about uterine or ovarian cancer after a spaying procedure, and they have a much lower risk of breast cancer. Male pets who are neutered have a lower chance of prostate cancer and a removed risk of testicular cancer. 

Longer Lives 

When you spay or neuter your pet, you’re giving them a better chance of living a longer, happier life. That’s because your pet will have a lower risk of many types of cancer, which are sadly all too common amongst cats and dogs. You can help your pet avoid these dangerous health risks by spaying or neutering them. Plus, pets are less likely to act aggressively towards other animals and potentially get in fights. 

Avoiding Overpopulation

Animal shelters across the country are struggling to keep up with the ever-growing animal population. Part of the problem is pets that aren’t spayed or neutered. Unfortunately, these animals often have litters that wind up in shelters or must try to survive in the wild. You can help keep animals out of shelters by spaying or neutering your pet. 

Contact Your Veterinarian Today

If you have any questions about what it would mean for your pet to get spayed or neutered, please feel free to contact your veterinarian today.