The Importance of Spay/Neuter

Spay/neuter surgery is a routine procedure to prevent animals from reproducing. Spaying involves the removal of a female animal’s reproductive organs, the uterus and ovaries, and neutering involves the removal of a male animal’s testicles. It is a crucial way to prevent animal overpopulation and, in turn, reduce shelter overcrowding. 

How spay/neuter helps reduce shelter overcrowding 

Across California, shelters are facing an overwhelming challenge: too many animals entering shelters and not enough space. Spay and neuter programs are among the most effective and humane ways to reduce shelter overcrowding.

When animals are spayed or neutered, they can no longer contribute to unplanned litters, which helps prevent thousands of kittens and puppies from entering already full shelters. Every procedure performed contributes to fewer animals looking to find homes and fewer communities burdened by overpopulation. 

At the San Francisco SPCA, every cat and dog is spayed or neutered before adoption. It’s part of our commitment to breaking the cycle of shelter overcrowding.

Benefits of spay/neuter for your pet 

Spaying or neutering isn’t just good for our community—it’s good for your pet’s health and well-being. By choosing to spay or neuter, you’re also giving your pet the chance to live a healthier life. 

Here are some of the additional benefits of spay/neuter: 

• Prevents pregnancy, uterine infections, and cancer: Female cats and dogs who are spayed avoid the health risks of pregnancy and giving birth, as well as potentially life-threatening uterine infections. Spaying also greatly reduces the risk of mammary cancer. 

• Reduces risk of testicular cancer: Neutering male pets eliminates their risk of testicular cancer and decreases the likelihood of prostate enlargement, which can cause discomfort and urinary issues. 

• Lowers reproductive stress: Spaying and neutering can make pets calmer and more content. Females avoid the stress of the heat cycle, while males are less reactive to females in heat, reducing behaviors such as roaming, fighting, or urine marking. 

When to spay/neuter your pets 

It’s generally recommended to spay or neuter your pet while they’re young (before they have a chance to reproduce). However, adult pets can also be safely spayed or neutered, so it’s never too late to make a positive impact. 

Being a responsible pet owner means doing your part to prevent unplanned litters and reduce the number of animals who end up in shelters.

You can reach our spay/neuter scheduling office by booking online or by texting (415) 554-3084. Due to high demand, texting is the fastest and most efficient way to reach our team.