When should my cat or dog be spayed or neutered?
There is no single calendar date that fits every pet. As a general starting point, we typically recommend:
- Cats: Around 5 months of age, before the first heat cycle or spraying behavior begins.
- Small and medium-breed dogs: Around 6 months of age.
- Large and giant-breed dogs: At or after 1 year of age (often 12 to 18 months for giant breeds) so orthopedic growth plates have time to mature.
During your pre-surgical wellness exam, your veterinarian reviews breed, body condition, and household factors so you can pick the right window with confidence.
What is the difference between a spay and a neuter?
A spay (ovariohysterectomy) surgically removes the ovaries and uterus in female dogs and cats. A neuter (castration) removes the testicles in males. Both prevent unplanned litters; a spay is an abdominal procedure with a slightly longer surgery time, though both typically discharge home the same afternoon.
What health problems can spaying or neutering prevent?
Spaying eliminates the risk of pyometra, a serious and potentially life-threatening uterine infection, and substantially lowers mammary tumor risk when performed before the first heat cycle. Neutering removes testicular cancer risk, helps prevent benign prostatic enlargement later in life, and often curbs roaming or urine marking without changing your pet’s core personality. For additional background, read the AVMA pet-owner guide to spaying and neutering.
How do you keep my pet safe on surgery day?
You review and approve a written estimate before any procedure begins (CareCredit is also accepted). For adult dogs and cats, senior pets (age 8 and up), or breeds with specific sensitivities, we run pre-anesthetic organ and blood-count checks in our in-house laboratory in about 10 to 15 minutes. Throughout surgery, your pet receives IV fluid support, pain medication started before the incision, and dedicated advanced surgical monitoring tracking heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen saturation, and temperature.
What is recovery like at home?
Most dogs and cats go home the same afternoon once they are awake, warm, and steady. Plan on 10 to 14 days of quiet indoor rest: short leash breaks only, an e-collar or recovery suit so your pet cannot lick sutures, and no running, jumping, rough play, or swimming. Remember that male dogs and cats can still impregnate an unspayed female for up to one month after neutering. Call us promptly at (408) 779-7325 if you notice redness, swelling, discharge, or lethargy; if a severe concern arises when we are closed, go to the nearest 24/7 emergency hospital (such as MedVet Silicon Valley, no affiliation).
What to bring on surgery morning
- Follow the overnight food-fasting and water instructions our team provides when you book.
- Bring a list of your pet’s current food, daily medications, and parasite preventives (plus prior vaccine records if you are a new client).
- Consider pairing microchip placement while your pet is already comfortably under anesthesia (see pet microchipping).
Reviewed by Dr. Jaspal Harika, DVM. Last reviewed: November 10, 2026. Educational information only; not a substitute for an in-person exam. See our medical disclaimer.
Book a spay or neuter consultation
Call (408) 779-7325 or use our contact form to schedule at 16150 Monterey Road in Morgan Hill.
