Neutering
Neutering is advisable to prevent unwanted pregnancies and undesirable behaviour. The surgery can be carried out from as young as three months of age, however our general recommendation is for surgery from 5–6 months of age, depending on the species and individual health of your pet.
Dogs
Neutering in dogs is advisable to prevent unwanted pregnancies, undesirable behaviour, mammary tumours and infections of the uterus.
The surgery can be carried out from as young as three months of age, however our general recommendation is for surgery from 5–6 months of age.
Health and behavioural benefits
Prevents unwanted pregnancies and helps control dog populations.
Reduces the risk of testicular cancer in males and uterine diseases (such as pyometra) in females.
Can help reduce roaming, aggression linked to mating instincts, and marking behaviour in males.
In females, prevents the seasonal heat cycle and associated behavioural changes when spayed before or early in the reproductive cycle.
Cats
Cats should ideally be neutered from around 4–6 months of age to prevent unwanted pregnancies and reduce health and behavioural issues. Neutering includes spaying (female) or castrating (male) and is done under general anaesthetic by a veterinarian.
Why neutering cats is recommended
Prevents pregnancy — female cats can become pregnant from as early as 4 months old.
Reduces roaming and the risk of road traffic accidents or fights with other cats due to mating behaviour.
Helps decrease aggressive behaviours and reduces the risk of infected wounds.
Lowers likelihood of urine spraying, especially in male cats.
Reduces the risk of uterine infections and significantly decreases the chance of mammary cancer in females when done before the first heat.
Rabbits
Male rabbits can sometimes be neutered from around 12 weeks of age once the testicles have descended. Female rabbits are often neutered from around 4–6 months. The decision on timing and suitability should always be discussed with a vet familiar with rabbit health.
Why it helps rabbits
Prevents unwanted litters and reduces territorial or hormonally driven aggression between bonded rabbits.
Female rabbits (does) are at particularly high risk of reproductive cancers, such as uterine adenocarcinoma, especially as they age; neutering significantly reduces this risk.
Neutered rabbits are more likely to live together peacefully, which is important because rabbits are social animals.