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Spaying & neutering: myths & facts

12 April 20266 min read

Neutering — in both males and females — is one of the operations we do most often, and also one of the most misunderstood. So let's set the record straight, no myths.

The health benefits

Beyond the obvious — no unwanted litters — neutering brings real health benefits too:

  • In females: drops the risk of mammary tumours and pyometra almost to zero
  • In males: prevents prostate and testicular problems
  • Fewer escape attempts, fewer fights, less marking

Weight after neutering

Ask us to work out the new portion once the surgery is behind you. A small tweak to the food keeps the weight in check — and saves you the "it got fat from neutering" story.

"It'll get fat" — the most widespread myth

Let's be clear: neutering lowers calorie needs a little, it doesn't make a pet fat on its own. With the right portion and a bit of exercise, the weight stays where it should. If you like, our portion calculator shows you exactly how much food it needs afterwards.

"It'll change its personality"

No — your pet stays itself. What eases off are some hormone-driven behaviours, like marking and the urge to bolt, and honestly, most owners see that as a relief.

When is it done?

The right age takes a little thought: it depends on species, breed and size. As a rule of thumb, from 6 months onward. Tell us about your pet and we'll suggest the ideal timing.

The surgery & recovery

This is a routine procedure, under general anaesthesia and with continuous monitoring. Recovery is quicker than you fear: most pets are back to themselves within a few days, with simple wound-care instructions.

Frequently asked questions

Is the anaesthesia dangerous?+

Every anaesthesia carries some risk, I won't pretend otherwise. But in a healthy pet, with a pre-op check and continuous monitoring, that risk is very small.

Should a female have a litter first?+

No, there's no medical benefit to it. Quite the opposite: neutering before the first seasons reduces the mammary-tumour risk the most.

Planning

Discuss neutering with us

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