DVA    326 Bridge Street   *   Dedham, MA 02026  *  781.326.2800   

WHY SPAY YOUR CAT?

A spay procedure involves the surgical removal of the ovaries and uterus of a female cat. This is major abdominal surgery and requires special care and attention by our surgical staff.

·        Reduce the risk of breast cancer

With each heat cycle the risk of breast cancer (mammary adenocarcinoma) increases. This type of cancer is very aggressive and often spreads to the lymph nodes and lungs. Spaying your cat before the first heat cycle is the best preventative measure for this cancer.

·        Prevent unwanted kittens

Too many unwanted cats and kittens are euthanized every year. Other unwanted cats become feral and continue to reproduce in the wild. Colonies of feral cats fight, kill wildlife, get into garbage and harbor disease which can spread to pet cats.

·        Prevent heat

Un-spayed cats go through heat cycles as the days get longer. During heat they will often vocalize all night, try repeatedly to get out, become unpredictable and even aggressive.

·        Prevent pyometra

The uterus of an un-spayed female cat is susceptible to infection and can actually fill with pus. Toxins from the bacteria cause toxic shock which is a life-threatening condition. This condition requires emergency surgery and is much riskier than spaying a healthy kitten.

·        Prevent marking behavior

Hormones that are produced by the uterus and ovaries can cause intact female cats to mark territory with urine. Even if a cat is litter trained they will sometimes mark with urine in inappropriate locations. The best way to prevent this behavior is to spay before the first heat.

 Home   |   Feedback   |   Staff   |  Directions & Hours  |  Employment   |   Client Handouts   |   New Facility   |   Specialty Practice