Spaying is done at all ages. At some humane facilities and animal shelters, spaying is being done when pets are 6 to 8 weeks old so that no adopted pets will have unwanted litters. Pets spayed by the family veterinarian are traditionally scheduled for surgery between 5 and 10 months of age. The smaller the breed, the more quickly the female matures, so that spaying of small dogs is best done at 5-6 months of age. The larger breeds mature more slowly so that spaying can be delayed until the pet is closer to one year of age. Thus, Chihuahuas may be spayed at 5 months of age and Bull Mastiffs may be safely spayed when 10-12 months of age. Spaying before the dog is mature ensures she does not go through estrus and become pregnant. When mature dogs are spayed, surgery is timed for a period between heat cycles when the blood vessels to the uterus are small and there is less likelihood of bleeding. With mature cats, bleeding is generally less of a problem than with dogs so that time is slightly less critical. When scheduling surgery for a pet that has just had a litter, it is best to wait about two months after delivery so that the young are weaned, the mother has quit nursing, and the uterus has returned to its normal size.
Prevents estrus cycles and vaginal bleeding
Prevents the birth of unwanted puppies and kittens
Prevents infection in the uterus (pyometra)
Lessens mammary cancer
Lessens cat yowling
Benefits of Spaying Your Pet
Spaying is the most common surgery for female pets because it has so many benefits for the pet and the family. Spaying:Prevents estrus cycles and vaginal bleeding
Prevents the birth of unwanted puppies and kittens
Prevents infection in the uterus (pyometra)
Lessens mammary cancer
Lessens cat yowling