One of the most important things you can do for your pet’s health is to have your furry friend spayed or neutered. These services provide a variety of important health benefits, in addition to reducing the number of homeless pets euthanized in shelters. Whether you are new to pet ownership or are considering adding a four-legged family member to your home, review why spay and neuter services are so essential.

Top 5 Reasons To Spay & Neuter Your Pets

1. Reduce Cancer Risk

Spay female animals to decrease the risk of breast tumors. According to the ASPCA, breast tumors are cancerous or malignant in 50 percent of canines and 90 percent of felines who do not get spayed. Neuter male animals to reduce their risk of prostate and testicular cancers.

2. Improve Behavior

Spaying and neutering will improve your pet’s behavior. Animals who have had the proper procedure are less likely to mark their territory in your home with urine. Male animals will no longer “roam” or attempt to escape your house to find a mate. Female animals will not go into heat, which causes them to yowl and urinate frequently.

3. Reduce The Animal Population

U.S. shelters take in about 6 to 8 million animals per year, according to the Humane Society. Less than half of these animals are adopted, and many of the rest are euthanized. Spaying and neutering prevent unwanted pregnancies to reduce the number of animals subject to euthanization annually.

4. Eliminate Certain Care Costs

Spaying or neutering your pet is much less costly than caring for a litter. The procedures also eliminate the cost of caring for an animal suffering from related health complications. For example, eclampsia is a life-threatening pregnancy complication that causes calcium levels to lower to dangerous levels. Female animals may suffer from seizures, shaking, and even heart problems.

5. Support Your Community

Homeless cats and dogs frequently get in fights with other animals, contribute to car accidents, and damage area plants and flowers. Stray dogs, particularly large ones, can appear scary to children and adults alike. Spaying or neutering your pet helps everyone in your community.

Get your pet spayed or neutered at Cat & Dog Hospital of Columbia. The premier pet care facility has served Columbia, MD, residents and their furry companions for over 30 years, with services including vaccinations, cutting-edge treatments, in-house surgeries, and much more. Schedule spaying or neutering for your pet, and learn more about Cat & Dog Hospital of Columbia by calling (410) 995-6880. Visit their website for more information, and like the pet care facility on Facebook for more great tips.