Why Is Neutering Important in Male Pet Cats and Dogs?
Neutering male cats and dogs offers several benefits:
• Prevents unwanted reproduction: Unneutered male pets can mate with females and contribute to the birth of unwanted litters. Caring for and rehoming these offspring can be challenging, and many may end up on the streets or in shelters. Neutering helps prevent such unwanted reproduction.
• Reduces behavioral issues: Unneutered male animals may exhibit aggressive or disruptive behaviors due to their sexual drive, especially when they sense a female in heat. These behaviors can cause problems both at home and outdoors. Neutering can reduce or even eliminate these issues.
• Prevents health problems: Unneutered male pets are at a higher risk for prostate problems, testicular cancer, and other reproductive system diseases. Neutering significantly reduces or eliminates the risk of these health issues.
• Encourages better behavior: Neutering can also promote better behavior in pets. It helps owners manage their pets more responsibly and often leads to more sociable behavior toward other animals and people.
In summary, neutering male cats and dogs helps prevent unwanted litters, reduces behavioral problems, promotes better health, and encourages more manageable behavior.
How Is Neutering Performed in Male Cats and Dogs?
Neutering in male cats and dogs is performed surgically by removing the testicles.
The procedure is typically done under general anesthesia. During the surgery, the testicles are surgically removed, which stops the production of sperm and lowers testosterone levels. As a result, mating behaviors are significantly reduced.
After surgery, wound care is provided with dressings, and painkillers or anti-inflammatory medications may be administered to ensure the pet is comfortable. Recovery usually takes a few days to a few weeks, depending on the individual case, and follow-up care is essential during this period.
Neutering offers health benefits by reducing the risk of hormone-related issues and reproductive diseases such as testicular cancer, prostate disease, and perianal tumors. Additionally, neutered animals are less likely to exhibit problematic behaviors associated with mating seasons.
In some cases, especially in cats, one or both testicles may not descend into the scrotum. In such situations, the undescended testicle(s) must be located and surgically removed.
In summary, neutering male cats and dogs is generally done via surgical procedures. After the surgery, a recovery period of about a week includes regular administration of antibiotics and wound care. Neutered animals continue to live healthy lives and have a lower risk of problems related to the mating season.
How Long Does the Neutering Surgery Take in Male Cats and Dogs?
Neutering in male cats and dogs is typically a quick procedure. The duration depends on the animal’s age, size, health status, and preoperative test results, but the surgery usually takes about 30 to 60 minutes.
Recovery typically occurs within a week, although this can vary depending on the pet's age, breed, and care.
The procedure is done under general anesthesia. Before the surgery, the animal’s health and suitability for anesthesia are evaluated through tests. During surgery, the testicles are removed, eliminating the pet’s ability to reproduce.
After the procedure, the animal is usually awakened within a few hours and can often go home the same day. For about a week, continued wound care and antibiotic use are necessary. Post-operative rest and proper care are important to ensure a smooth recovery.
Veterinarian Cihan ÖZGÜL
