Testosterone based tumors and cancers are very common in intact dogs, especially after age 6. Neutering eliminates many forms of these diseases and adds time to their life span.

The second most common type of tumor in intact male dogs is a perianal adenoma. These masses grow around the rectum, and can be several inches in diameter. They can also be malignant, and spread to other parts of the body. They often break open and bleed profusely. Testosterone is a major contributing factor, and neutering dogs prevents a vast majority of them.

Testicle cancers and tumors are the third most common cancer in intact male dogs. It is 100% preventable via neutering.

Even by preventing the second and third most common tumor in dogs, many owners are hesitant because of fear that:
1. The dog will be less “tough.” Neutered dogs are by no means “wimps.” They are just as protective of homes and families.
2. Neutered dogs personality will change. The only thing neutering changes is a dog’s sex drive. This may be the fair thing to do, instead of keeping a dog in a permanent life long state of frustration.

One thing that can happen is that about 20% of neutered dogs can gain weight, though this side effect can be readily compensated for by simply reducing the amount of food.

Also available for some hesitant owners are “neuticles,” which are testicular implants so that “no one can tell.”

Beyond ovarian, uterine and breast cancer in female dogs, which occur in over 40% of intact females, a disease called “pyometra” affects another 1 out 3 dogs. The uterus becomes infected and starts to fill with pus, like a giant water balloon. If the balloon bursts, the dog dies from severe internal infection usually minutes. Early signs of pyometra include excessive drinking, mild bloating, mild depression and sometimes smelly vaginal discharge.

Reasons to neuter cats

Un-neutered cat urine is horrendously smelly. It soaks into clothes, hair and furniture and is very difficult to remove with any cleaner.

Un-neutered cats spray this urine on walls, furniture and anything that stands still long enough in an effort to mark their territory.

Un-neutered cats fight other cats without hesitation, and catch infections such as Feline Leukemia Virus, FIV (a cat form of HIV) and Feline Infectious Peritonitis, which are all typically fatal. These diseases are also sexually transmitted,

Un-neutered cats roam miles away when they go outside, often getting hit by cars, finding mean dogs, or generally getting into trouble.

Un-neutered cats rarely live a full life span, due to fighting, disease or injury.

Why wouldn’t you get your dog or cat spayed or neutered?

Baxter
Baxter is a two year old cream colored and flame point Siamese mix. He's a very curious kitty who loves to have his neck scratched. Baxter loves to sit on your lap an be adored. This handsome boy's distinct quality is that his eyes are crossed. Though that doesn't stop him from looking for his new owner. These striking sea blue eyes are memorizing. Come to the SPCA Tampa Bay 9099 130th Avenue North and be mesmerized by sweet Baxter. For more information call 727 586-3591 or www.SPCATampaBay.org.