Neutering refers to the surgical sterilization of dogs and cats. Males undergo a castration, a complete removal of the testes, whereas females undergo an ovariohysterectomy, removal of the ovaries and the uterus. These are done under sterile conditions with general anesthesia just as with any other important surgical procedure.

We recommend neutering all pet animals for the following general reasons:

• Prevents unwanted pregnancies.
• Minimizes behavioral problems with other animals.
• Minimizes behavior problems with people.

Specific benefits for males:

• Marked reduction in risk of prostate disease (dogs only).
• Elimination of testicular tumors.
• Virtual elimination of anal tumors.
• Less likely to roam looking for female.
• Less likely to urine mark in house.
• Less likely to fight with another male.
• No “Tomcat” stinky urine smell (cats only).

Specific benefits for females:

• Elimination of risk of life-threatening uterine infections.
• Elimination of uterine and ovarian cancer.
• Virtual elimination of breast cancer.
• Elimination of heat cycle and undesired behaviors.
• Less likely to escape home looking for male.