What Is Spaying and Neutering
Spaying is a surgical procedure performed on female pets that removes the ovaries and uterus, preventing pregnancy and eliminating heat cycles. This common veterinary surgery is also known as an ovariohysterectomy. For male pets, neutering (castration) involves the removal of the testicles, preventing reproduction and reducing certain behavioral issues.
Our surgical team performs these procedures using advanced monitoring equipment and modern anesthetic protocols that maximize safety. The American Veterinary Medical Association recognizes these procedures as vital components of responsible pet healthcare.
Health and Behavioral Benefits
Research by veterinary medical associations confirms multiple health advantages of spaying and neutering:
- Female pets spayed before their first heat cycle have a 95% reduction in mammary tumor risk and elimination of uterine infections and ovarian cancers
- Neutered males show a complete elimination of testicular cancer risk and significant reduction in prostate disease
- Clinical studies show neutered males have 60% less roaming behavior and 70% reduction in marking
- Spayed females experience complete elimination of heat-related behaviors including vocalization and attraction of males
The Pet Hospitals’ commitment to community health extends beyond individual pets. Our Memphis-area spay and neuter initiative has helped reduce shelter intake numbers by supporting responsible pet population control.
Our Medical Procedure
1. Pre-Surgical Assessment
Our veterinarians conduct comprehensive pre-anesthetic blood testing to ensure organ function is optimal for surgery. This includes:
- Complete blood count evaluation
- Kidney and liver function testing
- Physical examination with cardiac assessment
2. Surgical Protocol
- Advanced anesthetic monitoring with continuous ECG, blood pressure, and oxygen saturation
- Heated surgical tables to prevent hypothermia
- Dedicated veterinary assistants actively monitor anesthesia and vitals of your pet.
- Multi-parameter pain management protocols
3. Financial Considerations
Surgery costs vary based on pet weight, gender, and medical requirements. At the Pet Hospitals, we also accept CareCredit payment options for qualified clients.
Medical Recovery Guidelines
1. Post-Operative Care Protocol
Our discharge instructions include:
- 10-14 days of restricted activity based on clinical assessment
- Proper incision care with twice-daily monitoring
- Medication administration schedule tailored to your pet’s needs
- E-collar (cone) used to prevent complications from self-trauma
2. Clinical Warning Signs
Contact our team immediately if you observe:
- Incision dehiscence (opening) or discharge
- Post-operative fever (indicated by rectal temperatures in excess of 102.5°F)
- Medication side effects, including vomiting or lethargy
- Pain indicators despite prescribed analgesics
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Spay For A Female Or Male?
Spaying refers specifically to the female sterilization procedure (ovariohysterectomy), while neutering typically refers to male castration.
What Age Should You Spay And Neuter?
Our surgical team follows evidence-based age recommendations for spay and neuter that consider breed-specific growth patterns, typically between 4-12 months.
Will My Pet Gain Weight After Surgery?
Clinical studies show metabolic changes of approximately 15-20% after gonadectomy.
Schedule With Our Surgical Team
Our AVMA-member veterinarians provide comprehensive pre-surgical consultation, advanced surgical techniques, and thorough post-operative care. Contact your nearest Pet Hospitals location to schedule with our surgical team, consistently rated among Memphis’s most trusted veterinary providers.
