Desexing is a surgical procedure that prevents pets from reproducing. In males it's called castration (removal of the testicles); in females, speying (removal of the uterus and ovaries). We perform desexing as a day procedure, with most pets going home the same afternoon.
Pets are typically desexed around six months of age, though the best timing varies case by case, so we'll advise what's right for your pet.
Why desex?
- Prevents unwanted litters and reduces the stray animal population
- Prevents testicular cancer, prostate disease, pyometra and mammary tumours
- Stops heat cycles in females
- Reduces aggression towards people and other animals
- Reduces wandering behaviour
- Lowers council registration fees
Before surgery
Book a few days ahead. Dogs can be washed the day before (they'll need to stay dry post-surgery). The night before, all access to food, including snacks and breakfast, must be completely removed. Water is fine until 1–2 hours before admission.
On the day
Arrive on time with your dog on a leash or your cat in a carrier. We'll perform a physical examination assessing the heart, lungs and reproductive organs, and offer an optional pre-anaesthetic blood profile. Please tell us about any medication your pet is taking.
After surgery
- Keep your pet quiet and rested for 7–10 days
- Offer about half the usual food on the first evening
- Give any post-surgical medications as directed
- Check the wound twice daily for signs of infection
- Prevent licking; use a cone collar if needed
- Attend the post-operative check-up
Questions about desexing? Call us and we'll happily talk it through. Prices are on our price list.