1. Neutering benefits your pet’s health:
   • In females, it reduces the risk of mammary gland tumours, ovarian and uterine cancers and infection of the uterus (pyometra).
   • In males, it reduces the risk of testicular cancer.

2. Neutering has positive behavioural effects:
   • Females will not have heat cycles so males will not be attracted, which may reduce potential stress or aggression in pets.
   • Males will have less urge to roam. Certain forms of aggression are reduced as are some unwanted behaviours such as urine spraying.

3. Neutering prevents unnecessary breeding and therefore helps to reduce the number of unwanted animals.

How old does my pet need to be in order to get neutered?
Consult your veterinarian about the best time to neuter your own pet as recommendations may vary depending on individual circumstances, but bear in mind that cats can get pregnant as young as 5 months of age.

Is neutering painful?
The operation is performed with the animal under general anaesthesia, therefore the animal won’t feel pain during the surgery, and pain-killers will be given by the vet as required. There may be minor discomfort for one to two days after the operation, but it will go away soon afterwards, and your pet’s chances of having a better, healthier and happier life are enhanced significantly.

Is neutering expensive?
Try to think of it as a lifetime investment for the benefit of your pet’s health. Unneutered pets are at much higher risk of contracting more diseases and having cancers related to the reproductive system – which will cost a lot more money in vet’s bills in the long run.

Will my pet’s behaviour change after neutering?
It might, however changes are minimal and minor. Male cats might be less likely to roam and fight. Females will no longer go into heat.

Some owners may worry that their pet will gain weight after neutering. Giving your pet an appropriate amount of food and providing regular exercise, such as walking your pet and playing with it will help to keep your pet healthy and should prevent it from putting on extra weight. This should be a key part of your pet’s lifestyle whether it is neutered or not.