Benefits of spaying or neutering
Spaying & Neutering for Pets — Benefits, Timing & Health Facts (Dublin 15 & Dublin 7)
Thinking about spaying or neutering your pet? This guide explains the health benefits, recommended ages, and common myths - based on what we advise at Cara Veterinary Group in Ballycoolin (Dublin 15) and Phoenix Park Gate (Dublin 7).
Note: In exceptional circumstances, neutering may be delayed or discouraged for behavioural or health reasons. Please consult your veterinary surgeon if you feel this may apply to your pet.
Read about our Neutering Service • Join the Pet Healthcare Plan (Save 20% on Neutering) • Call 01 885 3253
Why Spay or Neuter?
- Health protection: Prevents uterine/ovarian disease (incl. pyometra) and testicular cancer; reduces mammary tumour risk when done early; lowers risk of some prostate issues in males.
- Behaviour: Can reduce roaming, fighting and urine marking; helps many pets settle and focus on training.
- Welfare: Helps reduce overpopulation and the number of unwanted litters in Ireland.
Female Dogs (Spaying)
Spaying (ovariohysterectomy) removes the ovaries and uterus under general anaesthesia. It prevents pyometra (a life-threatening uterine infection) and significantly reduces the risk of mammary cancer if performed before the first season.
Risk Reduction - Mammary Tumours
- Spayed before first oestrus: ~0.05% lifetime risk
- Spayed between first & second oestrus: ~8%
- Spayed after second oestrus: ~26%
Because ~50% of mammary tumours can be malignant, early spaying is strongly protective.
Urinary Incontinence - The Evidence
Spayed bitches may have a slightly higher risk of urinary incontinence than entire bitches. Most cases are mild and respond well to treatment. Studies vary on whether earlier or later spaying changes this risk; your vet will personalise advice to your dog’s breed, size and history.
Male Dogs (Castration)
Castration removes the testicles through a small incision. It prevents testicular tumours and reduces risks of prostate disease with age. Many dogs show reduced roaming and competitive behaviours around in-season bitches, improving safety and trainability.
Cats
Female Cats
- Mammary cancer is less common than in dogs but **80%** of feline mammary tumours are malignant.
- Entire females are ~7× more likely to develop mammary cancer than those spayed around puberty.
Male Cats
- Neutering reduces fighting by **>80%**, lowering bite abscesses and FIV risk.
- Greatly reduces urine spraying/marking and wandering behaviour.
Recommended Ages (Guide)
- Small dogs (<10kg): from ~6 months
- Medium dogs (10–25kg): ~9–12 months (often after first heat for females)
- Large dogs (26–40kg): from ~12 months
- Giant dogs (41kg+): ~18–24 months
- Cats (male & female): from ~4.5 months
Your vet will tailor timing to breed, size, growth, behaviour and any medical considerations.
Common Myths - Busted
- “They’ll get fat.” — Weight gain relates to calories vs. activity; we’ll guide you on post-op nutrition.
- “She should have one litter first.” — No proven benefit; it adds health risks for mum and doesn’t prevent disease.
- “It changes personality.” — Temperament remains; some hormone-driven behaviours often settle.
Book with Cara Vets
- Surgical bookings: please call 01 885 3253 for pre-op instructions and scheduling.
- Book online for non-surgical services.
Join our Pet Healthcare Plan to save 20% on neutering and get unlimited free vet consultations.