Spay and Neuter

We strongly recommend spaying and neutering for most, if not all, of our canine and feline patients. Pet spay and neuter surgeries are an effective preventive measure against future health problems, and can also reduce certain unruly behaviors. Your pet’s safety is always our foremost priority here in Orland Park, which is why we take the time to get to know your pet and fully evaluate their health before proceeding to surgery. Our knowledgeable veterinarians and supporting team members treat every patient as an individual, and strive each day to help owners make the best decisions for their pets.

The Benefits of Pet Spay and Neuter Surgeries

Spaying and neutering animals can go a long way towards reducing pet overpopulation. From a health standpoint, these surgeries can:

Females

  • Prevent the heat cycle
  • Prevent spotting
  • Prevent roaming tendencies
  • Prevent the uterine infection known as ‘pyometra’
  • Prevent development of mammary tumors

Males

  • Prevent potential for aggressive behavior
  • Reduce or prevent marking/spraying
  • Prevent roaming tendencies
  • Prevent testicular cancer from developing
  • Prevent enlarged prostate development
two puppies sitting
two gray kittens

When Your Pet Should Be Spayed or Neutered

The appropriate age range for spaying and neutering pets is about 4-6 months. Females usually begin their heat cycle at about 7 months of age, so it is best to perform the surgery before that occurs. Depending on your pet’s size and health status, their spay or neuter surgery might fall outside of this range, but this is not common.

It is important that we see your pet for their exams, vaccinations, and bloodwork before taking them into surgery. As with any other surgical procedure, we need to make sure your pet can safely metabolize the anesthetic, and minimize all possible risks as much as possible. We will never perform surgery on a patient if they show signs of an underlying illness.

Ultimately, the date of your pet’s spay or neuter procedure must be set by you and your veterinarian. If you have any questions about surgery for your pet, give us a call at (708) 478-7788 or stop in to schedule a consultation with your veterinarian.