If you’ve welcomed a new furry family member into your home, one of the first steps on your to-do list is to visit your local veterinarian. In addition to vaccinations and deworming, if you have a female pet, you should ask your vet about spaying. To give you some background on your animal’s reproductive health, here are some basics of this common procedure.

What to Know About Spaying Your New Pet

Why You Should Spay Your Pet

For many people, the first reason that comes to mind for sterilizing your animal is preventing unwanted litters of kittens or puppies that cannot be cared for. This is certainly an important motivation, but spaying can also make your pet healthier. Removing the sexual organs and hormones helps prevent mammary cancer, ovarian cancer, and uterine infections. In addition, sterilization will eliminate undesirable sexual behavior in the animal, such as leaving secretions around the house, making mating howls or yowls, running away, or getting into fights.

When to Spay the Animal  

Veterinarians recommend spaying your pet before sexual maturity. This varies between species and breed. Many cats can become pregnant as early as four months of age, so its best to sterilize your feline six to eight weeks from birth. The standard age for dogs to be spayed is between six and nine months. However, some dogs can become pregnant when they are only five months old, so consult with your vet on the most appropriate time to perform the procedure.  

How to Help Your Pet Recover

As with any surgery, a recovery period and some discomfort can be expected. To help your pet make a full and speedy recovery, follow the instructions of your veterinarian. Provide them with a quiet and comfortable place to rest after the surgery, and help them consume any medication prescribed. Do not allow your pet to do any rigorous play or exercise until your vet gives the green light, and keep them from licking or biting healing wounds. It may also be necessary to refrain from bathing the animal for seven to 10 days to allow wounds to heal undisturbed.

If you need spaying or neutering services for your new pet, trust the skilled team at Rolling Hills Veterinary Hospital to help you and your furry friend complete this procedure quickly and painlessly. With two locations in Columbia, MO, this expert veterinarian team also specializes in pet grooming, checkups, and pet emergency care. To learn more about their veterinary services, visit them online or give them a call at (573) 449-7387.