Generally speaking, the short answer is as soon as possible. It is best to get your cat or dog fixed when it is young, but older pets can be fixed too. If you have any questions about spaying or neutering, contact our veterinarian at All Care Animal Clinic in West Palm Beach.
The Best Age To Get a Pet Fixed
Puppies, kittens, and other animals can sometimes be fixed at just eight weeks old. With puppies, however, most veterinarians may recommend that you not get the animal fixed until they are six to nine months old. For larger breeds, veterinarians may recommend waiting until your pet is one to two years old.
Adult animals can also be fixed. There is a slight increase in the risk of complications, but either way, spaying and neutering procedures are typically quite safe. Even if your pet is older, getting it fixed is often the right choice. That said, most animals recover more quickly and are at a lower risk of complications when they are fixed at a young age. That is why it is best to spay or neuter a pet as soon as possible.
Why Spaying & Neutering Are Important
Did you know that at any given moment millions of pets are living in animal shelters? Unfortunately, some of these pets will be put to sleep because they cannot find a loving home. By getting your pet fixed, you may be able to ease some of the pressure that is placed on animal shelters.
Furthermore, spay and neuter surgeries offer certain health benefits. Over time, unfixed pets may suffer from a higher mortality rate. Pets that are not fixed are more likely to run away, often in search of a mate. They may get into fights with other pets over territory and mates. They may even get hit by a car or suffer another injury. Unfixed pets also suffer a higher mortality rate because they are more likely to suffer from various health problems, such as testicular or ovarian cancer.
Get Your Pet Spayed or Neutered in West Palm Beach, FL
By getting your pet fixed while he or she is young, you can avoid many health problems and other behavioral issues. Contact All Care Animal Clinic today at (561) 688-1154 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Oberto. We can answer any questions that you may have about spaying or neutering. Call us today to help our local pet community and the health of your furry friend.