Desexing

Desexing Your Pet: What You Need to Know (and Why It Matters)

Desexing—also known as castration for males and spaying for females—is a routine surgical procedure that prevents pets from reproducing. It’s actually the most common surgery our vets perform, and in most cases, your furry friend is back home snuggling with you the very same evening.

When Should My Pet Be Desexed?

The ideal age is between 4 and 6 months, but don’t worry—no pet is ever too old to benefit from desexing.

Why Desexing Is One of the Best Choices for Your Pet

Desexing offers a long list of benefits, especially when done early. Here are some of the biggest perks:

Prevents unwanted litters — avoiding high costs and helping reduce the number of stray animals euthanised each year.
Protects against serious diseases — such as testicular cancer and prostate issues in males, and pyometra (a dangerous uterine infection) and mammary tumours in females.
Eliminates the heat cycle in females — no more restlessness, bleeding, or unwanted attention from neighbourhood males.
Helps reduce aggression — especially in males, leading to more harmonious households.
Decreases roaming behaviour — less wandering means fewer accidents and escapes.
Promotes a longer, healthier life — desexed pets often enjoy better long-term health.
Lowers council registration fees — a nice bonus!

Common Questions (Answered Simply!)

“Will desexing change my pet’s personality?”

Not in the ways you love. Your pet stays them—just possibly calmer and less reactive.

“Should my female have one litter first?”

No. In fact, allowing her to go through her first heat increases her risk of breast cancer.

“Will my pet get fat?”

Not if you manage food intake and exercise. A slight metabolism slowdown can occur, but maintaining a healthy weight is absolutely doable.

“Is the surgery painful?”

Your pet may feel some tenderness afterward, but we provide pain relief before, during, and after surgery. Most pets bounce back faster than their humans expect!

“Will my dog lose their guarding instinct?”

Nope! Desexing doesn’t affect their protective nature.

Preparing for Surgery

The Day Before

Book your pet’s surgery appointment (if you haven’t already!).
For dogs, give them a bath the day before because they’ll need to stay dry until stitches are removed.
No food after 10pm the night before, and no water after 6am on surgery day.
A pre-surgical blood test may be recommended.
The vet will perform a full physical exam beforehand.
Some pets may require IV fluids during surgery—this will be discussed with you.
All pets receive pain relief to keep them comfortable.

Caring for Your Pet After Surgery

Keep your pet quiet, warm, and rested—anaesthetic can take time to fully wear off.
Limit food and water to small amounts on the first night.
Follow any specific diet instructions from your vet.
Give all post-operative medications exactly as directed.
Make sure their rest area is clean and free from things that could irritate the wound.
Check the incision twice daily for redness, swelling, bleeding, or discharge—contact us immediately if you notice anything concerning.
Prevent licking or chewing! Most pets need a cone collar for a few days.
Attend all scheduled post-op check-ups appointments.