Our services
Desexing
Safe, routine desexing for dogs, cats and rabbits, with pain relief and gentle recovery care.
Desexing Dogs & Cats
Desexing is one of the most common procedures performed by veterinary practices and can be an important part of responsible pet ownership. It involves a routine surgical procedure that prevents dogs and cats from reproducing, while also providing a range of potential health and behavioural benefits.
Why desex your pet?
Desexing can help prevent unwanted litters and may reduce certain health and behavioural problems.
For female pets, desexing (spaying) eliminates the risk of unwanted pregnancy and greatly reduces the risk of uterine infections such as pyometra. When performed at an appropriate age, it can also reduce the risk of certain mammary tumours.
For male pets, desexing (neutering) prevents reproduction and eliminates the risk of testicular cancer. It may also reduce behaviours such as roaming, urine marking and some forms of hormone-driven aggression.
What happens during desexing?
Your pet will have a general anaesthetic so they are fully asleep and comfortable during the procedure. Dogs and cats are carefully monitored by our veterinary team throughout surgery and recovery. Our procedures always include intravenous fluid therapy and different types of pain relief (injections and oral medication).
After surgery, your pet will usually go home the same day with pain relief and instructions for their recovery. Most pets recover well, although they will need to have their activity restricted for a period of time while the surgical site heals.
Frequently asked questions
When should my pet be desexed?
The ideal timing varies between individual pets. Factors such as species, breed, size, sex and lifestyle can all influence the recommendation. The current scientific evidence can be confusing, so please speak with our vets about the best timing for your pet.
Is desexing safe?
Desexing is a routine surgical procedure and is generally very safe in healthy pets. As with any anaesthetic or surgery, there are some risks, which your veterinary team will discuss with you beforehand.
Will desexing change my pet's personality?
Desexing should not change your pet’s fundamental personality. However, behaviours influenced by reproductive hormones, such as roaming, mounting or urine marking, may decrease.
Will my pet gain weight after desexing?
Desexed pets can have lower energy requirements, which may make weight gain more likely if their food intake isn’t adjusted. Our vets can recommend an appropriate diet and feeding amount following surgery.
How long does recovery take?
Most pets are comfortable and improving within a few days, but the surgical site generally needs around 10 to 12 days to heal. During this time, exercise may need to be restricted and your pet may need to wear a protective collar or recovery garment.
Can my female pet have a litter before being desexed?
There is no health benefit to allowing a dog or cat to have a litter before desexing. Your veterinarian can advise you on the appropriate timing for your individual pet.
What should I expect after surgery?
Your pet may be sleepy for the first day after their anaesthetic. You should follow your veterinarian’s instructions regarding food, medication, exercise and wound care. Contact your veterinary practice if you notice significant swelling, bleeding, discharge, persistent vomiting, severe pain or other concerning changes.
Are There Alternatives?
Surgical desexing isn’t the only option that may be available.
Depending on your pet, we may be able to discuss temporary or non-surgical sterilisation options. These can have different benefits, limitations and suitability.
For example, a hormone implant called Suprelorin can be used as a temporary and reversible alternative to surgical castration in male dogs.
Because these options aren’t appropriate for every animal, we strongly recommend speaking with one of our vets before deciding what is right for your pet.
Ready to discuss desexing?
Every pet is different. Book an appointment with our veterinary team to discuss whether desexing is right for your dog or cat and the best time to have the procedure performed.
Ready to book a visit?
Book online in a few clicks or call our friendly team. We look forward to meeting you and your pet.