Spay & Neuter FAQs

Spaying or neutering a pet is a personal decision every pet owner needs to make for the benefit of their pet. By learning more about these procedures, you can make wise decisions in this area. These FAQs from Clay-Chalkville Animal Clinic in Clay provide greater insight into the benefits and risks associated with spay & neuter procedures.

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Why should I spay or neuter my pet?

Spay & neuter procedures sterilize your pet to prevent unwanted litters. If you’re not planning on breeding your pet, spaying or neutering your dog or cat is a practical means of avoiding unwanted pregnancies. Spay & neuter procedures reduce the risk of certain health issues with your pet, enabling him or her to live a longer, healthier life. These procedures also reduce the dog/cat population in animal shelters and on the streets.

At what age should I spay or neuter my pet?

The average age for spaying or neutering a dog or cat is around 4 months of age. You can, however, spay or neuter your pet safely much earlier, around 3 months of age, without putting him or her at risk. Younger pets have been known to recover quicker and suffer less pain from spay & neuter surgeries.

Should my female pet have at least one litter before being spayed?

It’s not necessary for your female to have a litter before being fixed. In fact, spaying your female before she has her first heat can keep her in better health by reducing her risk of reproductive tumors and infections.

Are spay/neuter surgeries dangerous?

These procedures are fairly routine today and pose little risk to your pet when performed by an experienced vet. Our veterinarian has ample experience with spay & neuter surgeries. You can have full confidence that your pet is in good hands.  

How long will it take for my pet to recover from spay or neuter surgery?

On average, most pets take approximately 2 weeks for their incisions to heal. By keeping your pet quiet and restricting his activities after surgery, he should recover with no complications. We’ll provide pain medications to keep your pet comfortable during his post-op care.

Will spaying or neutering my pet alter his personality?

Spay and neuter surgeries will not alter your pet’s personality or cause him to become lazy or depressed. Your pet could, however, have changes in his behavior, becoming less aggressive and more affectionate after the surgery due to not having such a strong desire to mate.

See Our Clay Veterinarian for Spay & Neuter Surgeries

To learn more about spay & neuter procedures or to schedule spay/neuter surgery for your pet, contact Clay-Chalkville Animal Clinic in Clay at (205) 681-1700 today.

 

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Monday:

7:00 am-6:00 pm

Tuesday:

7:00 am-6:00 pm

Wednesday:

7:00 am-6:00 pm

Thursday:

7:00 am-6:00 pm

Friday:

7:00 am-6:00 pm

Saturday:

7:00 am-12:00 pm

Sunday:

Closed