Neutering workshop

Question 1

when is puberty in cats and dogs?

Answer 1

• Cats < 4-6 months
• Dogs – more variable 6-12 months or even later in large/ giant breeds (24 months)

Question 2

what are the benefits of prepubetal neutering in cats?

Answer 2

• neutered animals live loner,
• surgery in prepubertal animals is more simple
• breedign control difficult
• large absolute overpopulation
• No increased risk in FLUTD

Question 3

what happens to the growth plates in prepubertal neutered cats?

Answer 3

• Delayed physeal closure ( in cats not shown to be associated with growth plate f#)

Question 4

what are the risks with prepubertal neutering in dogs?

Answer 4

• Potential for increased risk of osteosarcoma in Rottweilers/ joint disease and neoplasia in Golden Retrievers/ CCL disease in large breed dogs
• Probable increase in ?risk and certainly time of onset of USMI (urinary incontinence) (incontinence occurs earlier) in early neutered bitches

Question 5

what are the risks of not neutering bitches and dogs?

Answer 5

• Female – increased risk of mammary cancer, ovarian cancer, pyometra
• Male – increased risk of prostatic disease, testicular cancer