Spaying removes a female animal’s ability to reproduce. Most commonly, an ovariohysterectomy is performed. This procedure involves surgically removing the uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes to prevent pregnancy as well as heat cycles and their associated behaviours. Research shows that spaying does have many benefits such as eliminating the risk of pyometra (pus in the uterus) and uterine/ovarian tumours, as well as reducing instances of mammary tumours. Spayed pets may be at an increased risk of developing immune-mediated diseases as well as certain cancers, including lymphoma. Spayed pets also have a higher incidence rate of obesity, and large-breed dogs are at a higher risk of developing hip dysplasia.
The decision to spay will depend on many factors including lifestyle, breed, and health.