When to spay or neuter your pet

Timing is more nuanced than the old "6 months" rule. New research shows the right window depends on breed, sex, and size.

Why spay/neuter

• Eliminates risk of testicular cancer, dramatically reduces prostate disease (males)
• Eliminates pyometra (uterine infection, often fatal) and reduces mammary cancer risk by 90%+ if done before first heat (females)
• Reduces roaming, marking, and some aggressive behaviors
• Stops unwanted litters — major welfare issue in GCC

Timing — cats

• Around 5–6 months — before first heat for females. Cats are seasonal breeders and can become pregnant young.
• Earlier (8–12 weeks) is safe and increasingly common in shelters

Timing — dogs

More complicated. Recent research shows large/giant breeds benefit from delaying neutering until after growth plates close (12–24 months) to reduce risk of:

• Cranial cruciate ligament tears
• Hip dysplasia
• Some cancers

General guidance:

• Small breeds (<15 kg adult): 6–9 months
• Medium breeds (15–25 kg): 9–15 months
• Large breeds (25–40 kg): 12–18 months
• Giant breeds (>40 kg): 18–24 months

Females of any breed should ideally be spayed before second heat for cancer prevention benefits.

What to expect on the day

• 12-hour fast beforehand (water OK in last 4 hours)
• Same-day discharge for most procedures
• Cone for 10–14 days after
• Quiet rest, no running or jumping, for 2 weeks
• Suture check at day 10–14

Red flags after surgery

• Bleeding or swelling at incision after 48 hours
• Refusing food for >24 hours
• Lethargy or vomiting beyond day 2
• Licking through the cone — they need a different style

Cost in GCC

• Cats: 400–800 AED
• Small dogs: 600–1,200 AED
• Medium-large dogs: 1,000–2,500 AED

Some shelters and clinics run subsidized programs. Ask Aniis to recommend a vet — or check the K9 Friends, Tadweer, or Saudi Pet Welfare networks.