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It used to be that waiting to have a pet spayed or neutered
at 6 months was an accepted practice. Today, early spaying
and neutering -- the surgical sterilization of companion pets
between 8 and 16 weeks -- is encouraged and endorsed by the
American Veterinary Medical Association as an effective way
to stop pet overpopulation. Petland agrees.
No significant surgical risks or health differences have
been reported between puppies and kittens spayed or neutered
at the early age (8 -16 weeks) and those spayed or neutered
at the conventional age (6 months). Also, younger pets have
shown shorter surgical recovery periods.
Over time, studies have shown that spaying and neutering
a pet can lengthen its life, decrease some health risks like
mammary tumors, prostrate enlargements and uterine infections,
and make your pet a better family member by eliminating territorial
marking and seasonal heats that cause pets to roam. Ultimately,
this safe veterinary procedure prevents unwanted litters of
puppies and kittens; therefore reducing the number of homeless
pets euthanized each year.
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