Reports from last year state that there are fewer feral cats in Canada now than there were several years ago. While this is excellent news, we can always do better.
One way we can help reduce the population of feral pets is to spay or neuter any pet we adopt. If you live in Ontario, spay and neuter services can be performed at Glenridge Animal Hospital.
Spaying and neutering do more than prevent strays, though. There are many other benefits, too. Read on as we discuss some of those benefits.
It Makes Pets Healthier
People often think of spaying and neutering as preventing their dogs or cats from reproducing. While that is the main purpose, getting a pet fixed offers a lot of side benefits.
Males of any species face a risk of testicular cancer. Female cats might have ovarian cancer. Cats can get Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV).
Male cats are more vulnerable to FIV because they often fight with other cats. While FIV isn't sexually transmitted, it does spread more among animals that aren't neutered.
It Stops Roaming
If you've had a pet that ran away from home, you know how painful it is for you, and potentially
dangerous for them. The good news is that one-fifth of dogs and more than half of cats return at some point.
This raises an interesting question: Why do they leave in the first place if they're going to come back? Much of the time, animals leave home seeking a mate. This is far more common among males.
Female dogs and cats tend to attract males to them during mating season. You might notice strange dogs or cats hanging about. Spayed animals don't produce the hormones that attract males, so you won't have this issue if you get your pet fixed.
Improved Behaviour
A fixed pet often won't exhibit the same disruptive behaviours as intact pets. For instance, cats of all genders can spray, but they often do it to attract mates or mark territory. Dogs will mark things for the same reasons.
Spaying or neutering your pets can cut your pets' desire to mark things. Keep in mind that this isn't a guarantee. Sometimes, spayed or neutered pets still mark things, but this is far less common.
The Importance of Ontario Spay and Neuter
If you're looking for an Ontario spay and neuter service, we at Glenridge Animal Hospital can help. We have a dedicated team of professionals who have years of study and practice under their belts. Explore our wide array of services to keep your furry friend happy and healthy.