Why Spaying and Neutering Matters

February is Spay/Neuter Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of spaying and neutering pets. These routine procedures are one of the most meaningful steps pet owners can take to support longer, healthier lives for their pets while also helping reduce the number of animals entering shelters nationwide. 

Health Benefits of Spaying and Neutering Your Dog or Cat

Spaying and neutering goes beyond preventing pregnancy. These procedures provide valuable health and behavioral benefits that help your pet live a happier, healthier life, including: 

• Reduced risk of cancer, including mammary cancer in females and testicular cancer in males 
• Prevention of serious infections, such as uterine infections (pyometra) and prostatitis 
• Fewer hormone-driven behaviors, including roaming, spraying, marking, and aggression 
• Longer life expectancy, as studies consistently show spayed and neutered pets tend to live longer, healthier lives 

Spay and Neuter Myths 

There are many common misconceptions surrounding spaying and neutering. Let’s clear up a few: 

• “My pet will gain weight.” 
  Weight gain is related to diet and activity, not the procedure itself. Proper nutrition and exercise keep pets healthy at any stage. 
• “My pet’s personality will change.” 
  Spaying and neutering does not change who your pet is—it simply reduces behaviors driven by reproductive hormones. 
• “My pet should have one litter first.” 
  There is no medical benefit to allowing a pet to have a litter before being spayed. 
• “It’s unsafe.” 
  Spaying and neutering are among the most common and well-studied veterinary procedures, performed safely every day. 

How Spaying and Neutering Helps the Bigger Picture 

Spaying or neutering your pet helps more than just your household. The Nebraska Humane Society alone has helped over 200,000 pets find homes since 2000, showing how crucial these procedures are for pets and the community. Every procedure makes a difference and helps pets in our community thrive. 

By spaying or neutering, you help: 

• Fewer stray and homeless animals 
• Reduced shelter overcrowding 
• Less strain on animal welfare resources 
• Healthier pet populations overall 

Why February Is the Perfect Time to Spay or Neuter Your Pet 

Spay/Neuter Awareness is the perfect reminder to make spaying and neutering a priority in your pet’s preventive care plan. If your pet hasn’t been spayed or neutered yet, now is a great time to talk with our veterinary team. 

Call (402) 704-7304 to schedule your appointment and help your pet live a healthier, happier life while supporting pets in our community.