Neutering

Due to the large number of stray dogs that have to be destroyed ever year in the Strabane area Parkview Vets recommend neutering of all pets. As well as reducing the number of unwanted strays there are huge health benefits for your pet.

Unneutered female dogs are prone to get an infection in their uterus called a pyometra. This usually occurs a few weeks after they have been in heat and affected animals will get very dull and are seen to drink and urinate much more than normal. The only cure for the condition is immediate neutering, but the procedure is more risky and more expensive than a normal spay. Entire females are also more prone to mammary tumours and diabetes. Owners should also consider the hassle of the female coming into season every six months.

With male dogs neutering can reduce aggression and roaming if the procedure is carried out while the dog is still young. Health benefits include no risk of prostate problems or testicular tumours in later life.

A female cat can have 2-3 litters per year with 5-6 kittens per litter. This means that a female cat could be responsible for 20,000 offspring in just 5 years. This can produce vast colonies of cats.

Male cats that remain entire can be very aggressive to both people and other cats. In fights they are prone to pick up infections such as cat bite abscesses, Feline Leukaemia Virus (FeLV) and Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV). They also become very territorial and will spray areas to mark them which can leave a bad smell in the house.

Subsidized neutering is available to clients on means tested benefits through both the Dog’s Trust and the Cat’s Protection League.