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- Yuen Long Vet Recommendations｜Complete Guide to Petcore Veterinary Clinic Services
- Sai Kung Veterinary Clinic｜24-Hour Emergency Services & Fee Guide
- Yuen Long Pet X-ray Examination｜When Does Your Cat or Dog Need an X-ray?
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- Feline Stomatitis Causes & Treatment｜What to Do If Your Cat Won't Eat?
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- Complete Guide to Cat Vomiting Causes｜When Should You Take Your Cat to the Vet?
- Cat Urinary Tract Problems｜Blood in Urine, Frequent Urination Symptoms & Treatment
- Dog Stomach Pain Symptoms｜Causes of Abdominal Pain in Dogs & Emergency Care
- Dog Skin Allergy Symptoms｜What to Do If Your Dog Keeps Scratching?
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- Dog Heartworm Prevention & Treatment｜Vet's Guide to Protecting Your Pet
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- Pet Acupuncture Treatment｜What Are the Benefits of Traditional Chinese Medicine Acupuncture for Cats and Dogs?
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Pet Neutering Surgery｜Best Time to Neuter Cats & Dogs and Post-Operative Care
Pet Neutering Surgery｜Best Time to Neuter Cats & Dogs and Post-Operative Care
Pet neutering is a decision every responsible owner should seriously consider. Beyond preventing unplanned pregnancies, cat neutering and dog neutering can also prevent many serious diseases, improve behavioural problems, and extend lifespan. This article provides a detailed explanation of the benefits of neutering, optimal timing, surgical procedure, neutering surgery costs, and post-operative care to help you make the wisest choice for your pet.
What Is Pet Neutering Surgery?
Pet neutering surgery refers to the removal of an animal's reproductive organs, permanently eliminating their ability to reproduce. Unlike human sterilisation, pet neutering completely removes the reproductive organs:
Types of Surgery
| Sex | Surgery Name | Organs Removed |
|---|---|---|
| Male Cat/Dog | Castration | Testicles |
| Female Cat/Dog | Ovariohysterectomy (Spay) | Ovaries and uterus |
Benefits of Pet Neutering
The benefits of cat neutering and dog neutering go far beyond contraception, with significant positive effects on health and behaviour:
Health Benefits
Female Cats/Dogs
- Prevents Pyometra (Uterine Infection): A life-threatening disease; un-spayed female dogs have up to a 25% incidence rate
- Reduces Mammary Tumour Risk: Spaying before the first heat can reduce risk by over 90%
- Prevents Ovarian and Uterine Tumours
- Prevents False Pregnancy: Problems caused by hormonal imbalance
- Eliminates Pregnancy and Birth Risks
Male Cats/Dogs
- Prevents Testicular Tumours: Completely eliminates risk
- Reduces Prostate Disease: Prostate enlargement, infection
- Reduces Perianal Gland Tumours
- Prevents Cryptorchidism Complications
Behavioural Benefits
- Reduces Urine Spraying/Marking: Territory marking behaviour in male cats/dogs
- Reduces Aggression: Hormone-driven aggressive behaviour
- Reduces Roaming/Escaping: Decreased urge to find a mate
- Eliminates Heat Behaviour: Female cats in heat calling, restlessness
- More Stable Temperament: Reduces mood changes from hormonal fluctuations
Other Benefits
- Extends Lifespan: Studies show neutered pets have longer average lifespans
- Reduces Stray Animal Problems: Being a responsible member of society
- Reduces Fighting with Other Animals: Less competition for mates
Best Time to Neuter Cats and Dogs
Choosing the right timing for surgery maximises health benefits:
Cat Neutering Timing
| Type | Recommended Age | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Male Cat | 5–6 months | Best results when neutered before spraying begins |
| Female Cat | 5–6 months | Spaying before first heat maximises reduction in mammary tumour risk |
Important Reminder: Cats can go into heat as early as 4–5 months of age. Schedule surgery early to avoid unplanned pregnancy.
Dog Neutering Timing
| Type | Recommended Age | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Small Breed (Male) | 6–8 months | Mature earlier, can be neutered sooner |
| Small Breed (Female) | 6–8 months | Ideally before first heat |
| Large Breed (Male) | 12–18 months | Need to wait for skeletal development to complete |
| Large Breed (Female) | 8–12 months | Before second heat |
Note: Early neutering of large breed dogs may affect skeletal development and increase joint problem risks. Discuss the most appropriate timing with your veterinarian.
Neutering Surgery Procedure
Understanding the surgical procedure can ease owners' concerns:
Pre-Surgery Preparation
- Pre-Surgical Examination: Physical examination, blood tests to assess anaesthesia risk
- Fasting: No food 8–12 hours before surgery, no water 2–4 hours before
- Appointment Time: Usually scheduled for morning surgery, pick up in afternoon or evening
Day of Surgery
- Hospital Admission: Confirm details, sign consent form
- Pre-Surgery Assessment: Veterinarian performs final check to confirm surgery can proceed
- Anaesthesia: Anaesthetic drugs administered, intubation to maintain airway
- Surgery: Male cats approximately 15–20 minutes; female cats approximately 30–45 minutes
- Recovery: Wakes up in warm environment with close monitoring
- Discharge: Can go home after veterinarian confirms stable condition
Male Cat vs Female Cat Surgery
| Aspect | Male Cat Neutering | Female Cat Spaying |
|---|---|---|
| Surgical Site | Scrotum (external) | Abdomen (abdominal surgery) |
| Surgery Duration | 15–20 minutes | 30–45 minutes |
| Incision Size | Very small | Larger (approximately 2–5 cm) |
| Recovery Time | Faster (3–5 days) | Longer (7–10 days) |
| Complexity | Simpler | More complex |
Neutering Surgery Costs
Hong Kong neutering surgery costs vary by clinic and services included:
Cat Neutering Price Reference
| Type | Private Clinic | SPCA and Similar Organisations |
|---|---|---|
| Male Cat Neutering | $800 – $2,000 | $300 – $500 |
| Female Cat Spaying | $1,500 – $3,000 | $490 – $800 |
| Minimally Invasive Surgery | $3,000 – $5,000+ | — |
Dog Neutering Price Reference
| Type | Small Breed | Large Breed |
|---|---|---|
| Male Dog Neutering | $1,500 – $2,500 | $2,500 – $4,000 |
| Female Dog Spaying | $2,500 – $4,000 | $4,000 – $6,000+ |
What's Included in the Fee
When choosing a clinic, check whether the fee includes:
- Pre-surgical blood tests
- Anaesthesia fees
- Surgery fees
- Post-operative medication (pain relief, anti-inflammatory)
- Cone (Elizabethan collar)
- Post-operative follow-up
Post-Neutering Care
Proper post-operative care is key to ensuring your pet's quick recovery:
Days 1–3 Post-Surgery
- Provide a Quiet Environment: Let your pet rest in a warm, quiet place
- Restrict Activity: Avoid jumping, running, going up and down stairs
- Wear the Cone: Prevent licking of the wound—this is the most important point!
- Keep the Wound Dry: No bathing, avoid getting it wet
- Monitor the Wound: Check for redness, swelling, discharge, or unusual odour
- Small, Frequent Meals: Offer easily digestible food
- Give Medication on Schedule: Follow veterinarian's instructions for pain relief and antibiotics
Days 4–7 Post-Surgery
- Gradually increase activity (still avoid vigorous exercise)
- Continue monitoring wound healing
- Maintain normal diet
- Continue wearing the cone
Days 7–14 Post-Surgery
- Schedule follow-up for suture removal (if external sutures were used)
- Cone can be removed once wound is confirmed fully healed
- Can resume normal activity once healed well
- Bathing allowed after 10–14 days
Post-Operative Warning Signs
Contact your veterinarian immediately if you notice:
- Heavy bleeding or persistent oozing from the wound
- Severe redness, swelling, pus, or unusual odour from the wound
- Sutures coming apart
- Persistent vomiting or diarrhoea
- Complete refusal to eat for more than 24 hours
- Extreme lethargy, unable to stand
- Fever (ears and nose feel hot)
Post-Neutering Diet Management
Metabolism decreases after neutering, making weight gain easier:
- Reduce Food Portions: Caloric needs decrease by approximately 30% after neutering
- Choose Neutered Pet Formula Food: Low calorie, high protein
- Control Treats: Avoid excessive rewarding
- Monitor Weight Regularly: Maintain ideal weight
- Increase Exercise: Maintain activity level to burn calories
Pet Neutering FAQs
Q1: Will neutering change my pet's personality?
Neutering reduces hormone-driven behaviours (such as aggression, spraying), but basic personality won't change. Most owners report their pets have more stable temperaments and are more affectionate after neutering.
Q2: Will my pet gain weight after neutering?
Metabolism slows after neutering, and weight gain is more likely if diet isn't adjusted. However, with proper portion control and exercise, a healthy weight can definitely be maintained.
Q3: Can I neuter my pet while in heat or pregnant?
Neutering during heat is possible, but surgical risk is slightly higher (blood vessels are more engorged). Surgery during pregnancy is also possible but requires detailed discussion with your veterinarian. Surgery during non-heat periods is recommended.
Q4: Is neutering surgery risky?
All surgery carries anaesthesia risks, but neutering is a very routine procedure with minimal complications. Pre-surgical blood tests can assess anaesthesia risk, and choosing an experienced veterinarian minimises risk.
Q5: Will a male cat still spray after neutering?
If neutered before spraying behaviour begins, approximately 90% of male cats won't develop spraying behaviour. For male cats that already spray, about 60% will improve after neutering, but it may take time.
Petcore Veterinary Clinic Neutering Surgery Services
Petcore Veterinary Clinic provides professional pet neutering surgery services:
- Pre-Surgical Examination: Physical examination and blood tests
- Safe Anaesthesia: Quality anaesthetic drugs, continuous monitoring
- Professional Surgery: Experienced veterinary team
- Post-Operative Care: Pain relief, anti-inflammatory medication, and cone provided
- Free Follow-Up: Follow-up wound check within 14 days post-surgery
- Cat Neutering: Male/female cat neutering surgery
- Dog Neutering: Male/female dog neutering surgery for all sizes
Contact Us
- Yuen Long Clinic: G/F, 30A Fuk Tak Street, Yuen Long, N.T. | Phone: 2394-7300
- Sai Kung Clinic: Shop 2, 66 Yi Chun Street, Sai Kung, N.T. | Phone: 2394-4228
- WhatsApp: 9889-5518
- Website: www.petcore-vet.com
Pet neutering is the best health gift you can give your pet. Whether it's cat neutering or dog neutering, it effectively prevents many serious diseases and improves behavioural problems. Contact Petcore Veterinary Clinic today to arrange a neutering surgery consultation for your pet, giving them a healthier, longer life!