There are many good reasons for you to neuter your pet dog or cat. The most obvious is that "fixing" a male or female prevents unwanted pregnancies. It is believed that between 10 and 25 percent of U.S. puppies and kittens are destroyed annually. In Kentuckiana, experts agree that there is a significant pet overpopulation problem, and thousands of animals are euthanized every year. We at Feeders Supply encourage everyone to be a pet lover – spay or neuter your pet!

            Another good reason to have your pet fixed is health. Spaying female pets decreases their risk of breast tumors and cancer and of uterine infections. Neutering males is beneficial because it decreases aggression, the urge to roam and urine "marking". It also helps prevent testicular and prostate disease. Here are some common myths about fixed pets and the truth of the matter.

Myth. Spaying or neutering changes a pet's personality.
Truth. Having your pet fixed will reduce aggressiveness. However, a pet's genetic makeup, early socialization and training are the key factors shaping personality.

Myth. Spaying or neutering makes a pet lazy and fat.
Truth. Because pets are often fixed as they approach adulthood, their changes in behavior are incorrectly attributed to the procedure. Changes in playfulness and sleeping habits normally develop as pets mature. Weight gain is often the result of a quieter lifestyle. To help control your pet’s weight, adjust the quantity of food offered or feed a light formula. Also, make sure your pet gets adequate exercise by playing with him or her.

Myth.  A female is calmer and more content if she has at least one litter before being spayed.
Truth. No behavioral research supports this belief. Good care, proper nutrition and lots of love lead to a pet's contentment. When spaying is done after a pregnancy, the tumor prevention benefit of the procedure is diminished.

Myth. Keeping your male dog in the yard or male cat indoors is as good as neutering.
Truth. Dogs in search of females in heat are escape artists. When on the prowl, they can be hit by a car or involved in violent fights with other males. The same is true for cats. Wounds from fights can be serious and require veterinary treatment. And, intact male cats typically mark territory by spraying urine that has a strong, offensive odor. Neutered males usually do not spray.

            If your goal is a long, happy and healthy life for your pet dog or cat, it makes sense to have him or her fixed. And, you'll be doing your part to help stop Kentuckiana’s pet overpopulation problem. If you feel you cannot afford to fix your pet, help is available through one of the area’s low cost spay neuter programs. Contact Metro Animal Services, the Kentucky Humane Society or your local animal shelter for more information.

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Kentucky Humane Society S.N.I.P. Clinic