Other false impressions about spaying/neutering:
1. Can early spay/neuter stunt my pet's growth?
No. Your puppy/kitten will develop normally. In fact, young animals tend to
recover from surgery more rapidly than older animals. Dogs and female cats don't
generally have secondary sexual characteristics, and male cats neutered at a young
age will avoid "tomcat jowls" and the undesirable behaviors associated with intact
males.
2. Is it true that a dog/cat should be allowed to go through one heat cycle?
No. In general, the risk of an unwanted pregnancy is too great. In some
cases, a female dog with a history of vaginal infection may be allowed to go
through estrus once with the hope of reducing these problems. The result is a
hotly debated subject, and should be discussed with your veterinarian.
Additionally, spaying a female dog before her first heat will decrease the
incidence of mammary tumors later in life.
3. One litter won't hurt anybody, will it?
Pet overpopulation affects everybody. Every litter born contributes
exponentially to the problem. Did you know that two uncontrolled breeding cats
and their offspring could produce a population of 80 million cats within 10
years?
In 1996, the Brazos Animal Shelter received 8,655 animals, while only 3,048
were claimed or adopted. You do the math . . .
4. But my animal is purebred with papers. I could make some money.
Many purebred animals are surrendered at the shelter. Breeders spent
hundreds of years developing individuals breeds - and all of this hard work can
be undone in just one mating. A dog should be proven in field trials or kennel
club shows. It should be certified by veterinarians as free from genetic
defects, such as hip dysplasia, heart conditions, and other undesirable traits.
Everyone thinks their dog or cat is the best in the world. That's great! But
please visit your local shelter before you make the decision to breed. Don't be
a part of the problem when you can be part of the solution!
Lisa M. Howe, DVM, PhD
Diplomate, American College of Veterinary Surgery
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