Pets are great! They fill homes with love and joy and are the most loyal of companions. You as a pet owner should take care of your little ones, and make sure that they stay in good health. That’s why you should consider spaying or neutering your pet.

Spaying and neutering have been shown to help prevent cancer and reduce the risk of other health infections. But, you may have some questions fuelled by common misconceptions that are held about the process. So let us bust some myths!

Myth 1: Spaying or neutering makes pets gain weight and increases their laziness.

No evidence suggests that this is true. Pets become overweight for the same reasons that humans do- a lack of exercise and a habit of overeating. To make sure that your pet stays fit and healthy you need to make sure that you don’t overfeed them, and make sure that they get lots of exercises. Going on long walks, running around in backyards, and getting them interesting toys to play with are great ways to make sure your pet stays active!

Myth 2: Spaying or neutering my pet will change their behavior negatively.

Many people seem to believe that spaying or neutering their pets will lead to them becoming more aggressive. This is not true, it’s actually the opposite! It has been seen that dogs and cats that have been sterilized are less likely to get into fights with other animals or people. This is because their hormonal levels do not fluctuate as much. They’re also less likely to mark their territory by leaving the foul stench of urine all over your home, and less likely to mount your house guests and décor.

Myth 3: My four-year-old puppy or kitten is too young to be spayed or neutered.

This is definitely not true! Pets reach their maturity age much faster than humans do. Dogs and cats reach puberty by 6 months of age. This may vary by breed- smaller breeds may mature earlier, while large breeds may take up to two years. Veterinarians usually recommend having your pet spayed or neutered between 6 and 9 months of age. You do not have to wait for your female pet to complete its first heat cycle before you spay them.

Myth 4: If my pet has a litter I will be able to find them good homes.

The sad truth is that the number of pets that are bred in the world far exceeds the number of people willing to take them into their homes. Most kittens and puppies end up at shelters, which are usually taxed to capacity leading to the “kill” rule where the animals are put down if nobody adopts them. Others end up in laboratories and are tested on by industries like the cosmetics and pharmaceutical industries. As a conscious humane society, we should care for the welfare of these animals.

Our pets depend on us. We should give them the care they deserve.