We recommend neutering all dogs, cats and rabbits routinely. There are already huge numbers of unwanted pets in the UK, and by removing the risk of unplanned pregnancies responsible pet owners can avoid creating more.
Dogs
For males we generally recommend castration from the age of six months (older in large breed dogs), although at Sandhole we undertake a full behavioural assessment before neutering - some less confident dogs may need their testosterone a little longer!
Castration brings a number of benefits:
Reducing the risk of prostate cancer
Removing many behavioural problems
Preventing the likelihood of straying
Preventing unwanted litters
For females we generally recommend speying before their first season, at approximately six months old.
Speying brings a number of benefits:
Preventing uterine and ovarian cancers
Removing the risk of pyometra, a life-threatening infection of the uterus
Preventing unwanted pregnancies and messy seasons
Cats
In line with the latest policy statement from the Cat Group, we recommend 'early' neutering at Sandhole, undertaken from four months of age.
Neutering brings a number of benefits, and is important to do before your cat is capable of reproducing:
Less likelihood of roaming and fighting
Prevention of infections and cancers
Reducing the spread of infectious diseases such as feline aids
Rabbits
Neutered rabbits of both sexes enjoy improved health and happiness, and we recommend this be carried out from four months of age. Un-neutered rabbits would have to live alone, which isn't fair on an animal that needs company.
Neutering brings a number of benefits, and is important to do before your rabbit is capable of reproducing:
Preventing accidental pregnancies
Reducing aggression, both towards other rabbits and humans
Preventing uterine cancers, very common in rabbits
We will always make recommendations based on the individual animal, and in full consultation with you - please do speak with any of the team if you have any questions or concerns about neutering your pet.
