Spay and Neuter in Carmel, IN
Your pet has a natural ability to reproduce, and therefore natural urges to fulfill that ability. However, with reproduction comes the production of hormones that facilitate undesirable behavior, and sooner or later, even undesirable litters. So many animal shelters are already at full capacity, meaning far too many pets are euthanized. To address the animal overpopulation crisis as well as help your pet live a happier, healthier life, spay or neuter surgery is ideal. At Clayton Family Veterinary Care in Carmel, we perform laser surgery, which adds the additional benefit of a faster recovery. Call us at (317) 218-3142 or make an appointment online.
Spay and Neuter Benefits
Beyond pet population control, sterilization benefits your pet in the following ways:
- Females and males alike will have a decreased desire to roam to find a mate.
- Females will not go into heat, which can be a frustrating experience for both pet and owner.
- Males tend to have lessened aggression and less of a desire to mount objects.
- Urine spraying is reduced in both males and females.
- Females have no more risk of pyometra (uterine infection) or cancers of the ovaries and uterus.
- Males have no more risk of testicular cancer.
- Females have a reduced risk of mammary tumors.
- Males have a reduced risk of prostate problems.
When to Consider Sterilization
The general timeline for puppies and kittens to undergo a spay or neuter surgery is around 6 months of age. However, on a case by case basis, that timeline can change considerable. For instance, larger breed dogs typically benefit from a later surgery at about 12-18 months. Meanwhile, female kittens may benefit from an earlier surgery at 4-5 months depending on the timing of their first heat cycle.
When you first welcoming your new pet into your home, we’ll want to see them at our animal hospital right away to address any needs and ensure they are growing healthily. At that time, one of our vets can talk to you about when your pet will benefit most from a spay or neuter surgery. Call us at (317) 218-3142 to schedule a consultation for your pet.
The Procedure and Post-Operative Care
Just as with every one of our soft tissue surgeries, your pet’s spay or neuter will be performed with a CO2 laser rather than a scalpel. This allows for more precision, less trauma at the incision site, and faster healing. That being said, there are still some precautions you will want to take once you bring your puppy or kitten home from surgery:
- Like every surgery, spay and neuter requires general anesthesia and your pet may take time to fully recover from its effects. They may seem lethargic and even lose their appetite for up to 24 hours after surgery.
- Give them a quiet place to rest away from other animals or distractions. A crate or carrier can be ideal if they are comfortable staying in it.
- Keep them from any excessive exercise such as jumping or running for about 7-10 days after surgery.
- Check the incision to ensure it is healing properly and keep them from licking or scratching at it
If you notice any issues with the incision or your pet’s behavior changes dramatically, call us at (317) 218-3142 immediately.
