Reasons to spay or neuter pets
PET OHANA
Hawaiian Humane Society
Question: My 6-year-old daughter has asked me to tell her what exactly happened to our cat when she was recently spayed. How can I explain this procedure so she understands?
Answer: Your daughter might be too young to understand the mechanics of the birds and the bees, but she's old enough to grasp the benefits of pet sterilization.
She'll be happy to know that cats can live longer, happier and healthier lives after sterilization. And ensuring that your family cat doesn't get pregnant means that the kittens at the Humane Society have a better chance of finding loving families to call their own.
Q: What does happen during surgery?
A: Understanding the process is important for all pet owners. Female cats, dogs and rabbits are "spayed," meaning the uterus and ovaries are surgically removed. This keeps the animal from going into heat and eliminates its ability to reproduce. It recovers quickly -- within several days.
Male cats, dogs and rabbits are "neutered," which means the surgical removal of their testicles. This procedure prevents sperm and testosterone production.
Pet sterilization helps to control pet overpopulation, but there are also good health reasons to spay and neuter. The incidence of infections, cancer and other illnesses related to reproductive organs are greatly reduced.
The Hawaiian Humane Society welcomes questions by e-mail,
hhs@hawaiianhumane.org. Indicate "Pet Ohana" in the subject line. Or, write "Pet Ohana," Hawaiian Humane Society, 2700 Waialae Ave., Honolulu 96826.