Desexing
At Motto Farm Veterinary Hospital, we recommend desexing all male and female dogs and cats that are not intended for breeding. Desexing offers numerous health, behavioural, and community benefits, helping your pet live a longer, healthier life.
Desexing Breakdown
Spaying Female Dogs and Cats
Spaying your female dog can be performed from 5–6 months of age. For cats, desexing is recommended before 4 months of age to avoid additional council registration fees. Performing the procedure before their first heat significantly reduces the risk of mammary tumours later in life, almost eliminating the risk entirely.
In certain large and giant breed dogs, delaying desexing may be advised to allow for full physical maturity.
Additional benefits of spaying include:
Prevention of pyometra, a life-threatening uterine infection
Reduction in wandering and roaming behaviour
Prevention of unwanted pregnancies
Neutering Male Dogs and Cats
For small dog breeds, castration can be performed from 5–6 months of age. For cats, desexing is recommended before 4 months of age to avoid additional council registration fees. Neutering helps:
Reduce aggression
Limit wandering and roaming
Reduce the risk of prostate enlargement and tumours later in life
Prevent unwanted pregnancies
For large and giant breed dogs, neutering is recommended between 12–18 months of age, as waiting may reduce the risk of cruciate ligament injuries.
The Desexing Procedure
Desexing is a same-day surgical procedure performed at our hospital. Pets need to be fasted overnight and admitted on the morning of surgery. Most dogs and cats may be a little sleepy or sore for a couple of days post-surgery, but they typically recover quickly.
- Pets will need to be kept quiet for 10 – 14 days. No exercise.
- Keep sutures dry and clean for 10 days
- Bring your pet back for a recheck appointment to ensure proper healing
- After the recheck, most pets can resume normal activities
Why Desexing Matters
Desexing not only improves your pet’s health and behaviour, but also helps reduce pet overpopulation in the community. Our veterinary team provides gentle, safe, and compassionate care to ensure a smooth recovery.