Spay & Neuter

At Animal Hospital of South Bay, we are committed to supporting the fight against animal overpopulation and enhancing the health and well-being of pets through our spay and neuter services. Every year, thousands of stray and unwanted animals are euthanized in shelters across the United States—many of these deaths are preventable through responsible pet ownership and timely spaying and neutering.

Why Spay & Neuter?

Spaying and neutering not only help control the pet population but also provide significant health and behavioral benefits for your pets. Our experienced veterinary team ensures safe, effective procedures with the utmost care and attention to your pet’s comfort and recovery.

Spaying (Ovariohysterectomy)

Spaying is a common surgical procedure performed on female cats and dogs. It involves the removal of the uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes, making the animal incapable of reproduction.

• When to Spay: We recommend cats be spayed by five months of age and dogs at six months of age, ideally before the first heat cycle. HOWEVER, this can differ vastly depending on a pet’s lifestyle, breed, size, and health history. Our doctors can give individualized recommendation during a wellness exam.
• Benefits:
  • Prevents unwanted pregnancies
  • Eliminates the risk of ovarian and uterine tumors
  • Removes the possibility of life-threatening uterine infections (pyometra)

What to Expect After Spaying: Though common, spaying is still a major surgery that requires 7-10 days of recovery. Lethargy is common in the first few days, and your pet may be prescribed pain medication. It’s important to use a cone or surgical recovery suit to prevent licking or biting at the incision site to avoid infection or the opening of sutures.

Neutering (Castration)

Neutering is the surgical removal of the testicles in male cats and dogs, preventing them from impregnating females.

• When to Neuter: We recommend cats be neuter by five months of age and dogs at six months of age. HOWEVER, this can differ vastly depending on a pet’s lifestyle, breed, size, and health history. Our doctors can give individualized recommendation during a wellness exam.
• Benefits:
  • Prevents unwanted reproduction
  • Reduces aggressive behavior and dominant tendencies
  • Decreases roaming and territorial marking (spraying)
  • Eliminates the risk of testicular cancer and reduces the risk of prostate issues

What to Expect After Neutering: While less invasive than spaying, neutering is still a significant procedure. Lethargy is common in the first few days, and your pet may be prescribed pain medication. It’s important to use a cone or surgical recovery suit to prevent licking or biting at the incision site to avoid infection or the opening of sutures.

Schedule Your Pet’s Spay or Neuter Today

Choosing to spay or neuter your pet is a responsible decision that contributes to their long-term health and helps reduce the number of homeless animals. Contact the Animal Hospital of South Bay today to schedule an appointment or learn more about our spay and neuter services.