Spay & Neuter
Spaying
Spaying is a common surgical procedure performed on female cats and dogs. The process is called an ovariohysterectomy and involves removing the patient’s uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes, rendering the animal incapable of reproduction. Westfield Veterinary Hospital veterinarians recommend spaying your pet at 4-6 months, depending on your dog’s breed and ideally before the patient’s first heat. Westfield Veterinary Hospital performs spays on dogs and cats in Johnston.
Benefits of Spaying Your Cat or Dog
- Prevents unwanted pregnancies
- Eliminates the risk of ovarian and uterine tumors
- Remove the possibility of uterine infections
Caring For Your Dog or Cat After Spaying
Spaying is a major surgery requiring 10-14 days of recovery time. Your dog’s or cat’s post-spay recovery may also include pain medication and lethargy is common for the first couple of days following the procedure. It is extremely important that you monitor your pet to prevent licking or biting the incision to reduce the risk of infection.
Neutering
Westfield Veterinary Hospital in Johnston performs neutering on male cats and dogs. This process castrates the animal, removing their testicles and making them unable to impregnate females. Neutering your pet is advised when your dog or cat is 4-6 months old but can be performed on older animals as well.
Benefits of Neutering Your Cat or Dog
- Placates the animal, reducing aggressive behavior and decreasing dominant tendencies
- Reduces roaming and spraying (territory marking)
- Eliminates the risk of testicular and prostate tumors
Caring For Your Dog or Cat After Neutering
Although less invasive than spaying, neutering is still a major medical procedure that requires some recovery time. Recovery may also include pain medication and lethargy is common for the first couple of days following the procedure. It’s extremely important that you monitor your pet to prevent the animal from licking or biting the incision to reduce the risk of infection.
Get Your Dog or Cat Spayed or Neutered in Johnston, IA
To learn more about spaying and neutering, or to schedule an appointment to get your dog or cat spayed or neutered, contact us at (515)-986-5738 or schedule an appointment online.
