It’s February is Spay/Neuter Awareness Month! If your pet is not already spayed or neutered, here is a list of reasons why you should consider scheduling an appointment with your veterinarian sooner rather than later.

Reduces risks of cancers

Unaltered pets (pets that are not spayed or neutered) are more at risk of getting ovarian, mammary or testicular cancers.

Reduces unwanted behaviors

Unaltered pets, male dogs and cats especially, display more unwanted behaviors than altered pets, such as spraying, marking, yowling and more. 

Increases life span

Of course by spaying or neutering your pet will not only reduce their risks to getting certain cancers, but will also reduce their chances of getting certain infections and prostate problems!

Reduces roaming

Pets that are not fixed (spayed or neutered) are more likely to try and escape to look for a mate, which can also put them at risk of getting hit by vehicles or put in danger.

Decreases pet over population

El Paso Animal Services brings in and cares for more than 17,000 pets every year. Imagine, if just one unspayed female cat can have approximately 25 kittens in a single year, and those kittens can also have 25 kittens in a year, then that leaves shelters with an overwhelming number of cats to care for. Unfortunately, many unwanted litters are either abandoned by their owners or worse – which is why preventing overpopulation is critical in protecting cats’ and dogs’ lives.

If your pet is not already spayed or neutered, and you’re looking for a veterinarian in El Paso that can help, visit our friends at www.EPVMA.org to find a vet in your area!