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Cheetham House
The Drove, Bridgwater
Somerset
TA6 4BA

01278 450080
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Neutering

Neutering removes the sexual organs of animals in order to prevent breeding. It is usually carried out surgically under a general anaesthetic and in most cases is a day procedure. Although neutering is often thought of as a convenience for the owner, it can also provide great health benefits to the pet. 
 

Male animals (dogs, tom cats, buck rabbits, male small mammals)

• Castration: removal of the testes
• Vasectomy in ferrets only
• Removes sexual behaviour such as mounting, wandering etc
• May help with male characteristics such as dominance and aggression if combined with appropriate behavioural training
• Prevents testicular disease such as testicular tumours
• Reduces risks of prostatic disease, perineal hernia, perineal adenoma

Female animals (bitches, queen cats, doe rabbits, small female mammals)

• Ovariohysterectomy: removal of the uterus and both ovaries
• Prevents ‘seasons’ as well as breeding 
• May prevent related behavioural problems
• Will not come ‘in season’ therefore there is no need to confined or deprived of usual exercise at these times
• Prevents unwanted offspring
• Prevents phantom pregnancies (especially in bitches)
• Stops the stress of cats calling
• Reduces the risks of uterine diseases, uterine and ovarian tumours, pyometra (all species)
• Reduces risks of mammary disease (all species), prevents mammary tumours if carried out before the first season in bitches.

When to neuter

The correct time to neuter depends on species and breed. In dogs and cats this is typically from 5-6 months old and in rabbits 4 months old. Please telephone the Hospital for further advice on when to neuter your individual pet.

Assistance with costs for neutering

The RSPCA works together with Quantock Veterinary Hospital to provide reduced price neutering for those owners on low incomes. If you feel you may be eligible for such help please contact:   RSPCA neutering scheme 01297 678715