veterinarian performing surgery

Spay and Neuter for Dogs and Cats in Oklahoma City, OK

Unless you plan to breed your pet, you may need to have them spayed or neutered. Dog and cat spay and neuter surgeries are frequently performed to reduce the overpopulation of strays and prevent future behavioral or health problems. However, in your pet’s case, a thorough exam and discussion of their lifestyle should take place before we make any permanent decisions about their care.

At our animal hospital in Oklahoma City, the Awesome Care staff wants to get to know you and your pet so, together, we can help you make the most informed choices about what they need to live their longest healthiest life.

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When to Have Your Dog or Cat Spayed or Neutered

Depending on your pet’s breed and size, the age at which they should be spayed or neutered may vary. There is a window of time we consider most ideal for dog and cat spay and neuter surgeries, which is between 5 and 6 months of age. Following a physical exam and evaluation of your pet’s medical history, we will help you decide the best age to schedule their surgery. Keep in mind that as your pet grows older, their risk of complications during surgery may increase.

Spaying and Neutering Benefits Dogs and Cats in Oklahoma City

There are a number of health and behavioral benefits that your pet can experience following their spay or neuter surgery. Along with preventing unwanted pregnancies, spaying and neutering can also:

Dog and Cat Spaying 

  • Eliminate the heat cycle
  • Eliminate spotting
  • Reduce roaming tendencies
  • Reduce likelihood of developing mammary cancer
  • Eliminate likelihood of developing pyometra
  • Eliminate likelihood of developing uterine cancer

Dog and Cat Neutering 

  • Reduce aggression
  • Reduce spraying/marking
  • Reduce roaming tendencies
  • Eliminate likelihood of developing testicular tumors
  • Reduce likelihood of developing prostate problems
  • Reduce likelihood of mounting other animals, objects, etc.

Spaying or neutering will not change your pet’s personality, but it can reduce or eliminate certain unruly behaviors.

Veterinarian performing a dog neuter surgery

What to Expect for Spay and Neuter Surgery

A comprehensive exam and an evaluation of your pet’s full medical history will help determine whether spaying or neutering is the best option for them. If your pet does undergo surgery, they may need to be fasted for 12 hours before their procedure, and be kept quiet and contained for 10 to 14 days during their recovery. Your pet’s incision must be kept dry and clean, and they may need to wear an Elizabethan collar to prevent them from chewing and licking at the area. Please check the incision site twice daily and call if there is swelling, discharge, redness, or it appears to be open. To learn more about our pet spay and neuter surgeries or to schedule a pre-surgical exam, you can call us at (405) 631-0569.

Ask about the benefits of Laser Surgery available here at Awesome Care Veterinary and Laser Center in south Oklahoma City.