Five myths about spay/neuter surgery and the truth about your pet’s health

Spaying/neutering your pet is essential to responsible pet parenthood, yet many myths and misconceptions surround these procedures.

Unfortunately, these myths can prevent pet parents in Macau from making the best choices for their pets’ health and well-being. Below, we address 10 myths about spay/neuter surgeries and the facts you need to know to make an informed decision for your pet.

 Myth 1: My pet is too young to be spayed/neutered.

Fact: Female cats can reach sexual maturity and become pregnant as early as 4 months old, and female dogs can reach sexual maturity and become pregnant as early as 6 months old.

We recommend the following:

All cats be spayed/neutered between 6-8 months old

Female dogs and small-breed male dogs (with a projected adult weight under 25kg) be spayed/neutered between 6 and 8 months

Large-breed male dogs (those whose adult weight will be over 25kg) should be neutered at 1 year old.

 Myth 2: My male pet doesn’t need to be neutered because he can’t have puppies or kittens. Only female pets need to be spayed to prevent overpopulation.

Fact: Many people mistakenly believe male pets don’t need to be neutered because they can’t physically have puppies or kittens. However, this overlooks the important role males play in reproduction. An unneutered male can father dozens of litters each year and contribute significantly to the problem of pet overpopulation.

Additionally, intact males are more likely to roam in search of mates, increasing the risk of injuries, fights, and the spread of diseases. Neutering reduces these behaviours and helps prevent certain cancers and health issues. By neutering male pets, you play a crucial role in reducing the number of homeless pets entering shelters in Macau and improving your pet’s well-being.

 Myth 3: My pet will have a different personality after he/she is spayed/neutered.

Fact: Spaying or neutering does not change your pet’s unique personality, temperament, or energy levels. The procedure only reduces hormone-driven behaviours, such as marking, roaming, or aggression. Many pet parents notice positive changes, such as calmer behaviour or less frustration during heat cycles or mating instincts. Spaying or neutering helps your pet lead a happier and healthier life without altering who they are.

 Myth 4: It’s too expensive to spay/neuter my pet.

Fact: While there is an upfront cost to spaying or neutering your pet, the procedure helps prevent costly health issues, such as uterine infections, mammary tumours, or testicular cancer. It also eliminates expenses related to caring for unplanned litters or treating injuries from roaming or fighting.

If the cost is a concern, many veterinary hospitals, including RVC, offer affordable spay/neuter services. We are here to help ensure all pets have access to this vital service.

 Myth 5: It’s better to let my pet have one heat cycle and/or litter before spaying.

Fact: Spaying a female pet before her first heat cycle significantly reduces the risk of developing mammary tumours and eliminates the risk of uterine infections such as pyometra. Allowing a pet to go through a heat cycle or have a litter provides no medical or behavioural benefits and can lead to stress due to hormonal changes and associated behaviours.

Pregnancy and birth can carry significant risks, including complications that may endanger the mother’s life. Bringing more litters into the world contributes to pet overpopulation, which strains shelters and rescue organisations. Spaying before your pet has a litter is a responsible choice that protects her health and reduces the number of homeless animals.

Hope this info helps till next time

by Dr Ruan Du Toit Bester

Royal Veterinary Centre

Tel: +853 28501099

Emergency: +853 66776611

Email: info@rvcmacau.com