Tom and I have worked with animal rescues for over 15 years, and I continue to do fundraising lectures for them, based on one of my 3 series of books. Recently, Lakes Region Humane Society {LRHS) in Ossipee, New Hampshire published an eye-opening graphic that should hopefully quickly motivate you to spay and neuter your pets. That's the topic of today's blog along with a POP QUIZ you should read. PLUS- I'm giving a Fundraising Lecture at LHRS on OCTOBER 12, 2024 at 11am on "Pets and the Afterlife" REGISTER NOW! 11 Old Rt. 28, Ossipee, NH 03864(603) 539-1077 phone Megan Williams, Executive Director GET TICKETS : https://lrhs.net/ https://lrhs.net/event/pets-the-afterlife/ Please help them out if you can, and read this fascinating blog!
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NH shelters have seen a massive surge in unwanted litters of kittens this year and it is putting a strain on our resources, including our foster homes. We cannot stress the importance of spaying/neutering your cats enough.
Understanding the benefits and drawbacks of spaying and neutering your pets is key to making an informed decision. We sat down with Dr. Susan Haley from The Kindness Animal Hospital to explore the facts and misconceptions surrounding this critical topic.
Neutering Male Cats: There is no consequence to neutering male cats at 6-months of age. Neutered male cats are less likely to spray pungent urine in and around your home/neighborhood, fight other animals, or stray far from home. Neutered male cats tend to live longer as they are less likely to engage in risky behaviors.
Interesting Fact: Male kittens as young as five months can impregnate females. Additionally, sperm can remain in a pets' system for a little while following a neuter, which could lead to unexpected pregnancies if he mates shortly after surgery.
Spaying Female Cats: The optimal time to spay cats is at 6-months, before their first heat. This reduces the risk of mammary cancer, which is often aggressive and malignant in intact female cats. Female cats are notorious for displaying desperate behaviors when in heat, such as loud vocalizing and attempts to escape to find a mate, spaying at 6-months lessens these behaviors and eliminates unwanted pregnancies. Unspayed females will often mark their territory just like males – yuck!
PLEASE DONATE TO HELP THE LAKES REGION HUMANE SOCIETY WITH ALL THESE KITTENS: DONATE HERE
Lakes Region Humane Society | 11 Old Rte. 28 PO Box 655 | Ossipee, NH 03864 US
"Altering cats is the most responsible thing an owner can do for the community and the health/safety of their pets. We beg of you, please, do the right thing, spay/neuter your cats!"
- Megan Williams, Executive Director, LRHS
POP QUIZ
Q: If you have both male and female cats and had to choose which to spay/neuter first, which would you choose?
A: Prioritize spaying the female first. While the cost of neutering is less, female cats are more prone to aggressive mammary cancers, and are the ones who get pregnant. Spaying females is crucial to their long-term health and eliminates pregnancies.
Spaying Female Dogs: The optimal time to spay is around 6-months* before their first heat cycle - it’s quicker, less risky, and reduces the risk of mammary cancer to almost zero. After just one heat cycle, the risk for mammary cancer jumps to 12%, and after two cycles, it increases to 20%. Spaying females also removes the risk of pyometra, a life-threatening uterine infection common in older in intact females.
Interesting Fact: Intact female dogs are highly fertile and can become pregnant even in unlikely circumstances, i.e. through chain-link fences or at a dog park.
Neutering Male Dogs: It’s commonly recommended to neuter at 6-months-old*. Neutering before 2-years of age lessens the risk of prostate cancer. It is important to neuter males if they are experiencing behavioral issues, as intact males are more likely to roam, which increases the risk of accidents, injuries, or going missing. Intact males may also be more prone to aggressive or marking behavior.
*For Both Male & Female Large Breed Dogs: delaying spaying/ neutering until they are fully grown (2-years-old) may help avoid orthopedic issues. Early spaying/neutering in large breeds can delay the closure of growth plates, potentially leading to conditions like hip dysplasia or ACL ruptures. However, there are no real drawbacks for spaying/neutering smaller breeds after 6-months of age.
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TOMORROW!!! Fundraising Lecture at LHRS on OCTOBER 12, 2024 at 11am on "Pets and the Afterlife" REGISTER NOW! 11 Old Rt. 28, Ossipee, NH 03864(603) 539-1077 phone Megan Williams, Executive Director GET TICKETS : https://lrhs.net/ https://lrhs.net/event/pets-the-afterlife/ Please help them out if you can, and read this fascinating blog!
