Spaying and Neutering Pets

Determining whether to proceed with spaying or neutering is an important choice you make for your pet’s long-term health. At Lansdowne Animal Hospital in Leesburg, VA, we support pet owners across Ashburn, Loudoun, Lansdowne, Belmont, Sterling, and surrounding areas with compassionate, professional veterinary care—including expert spay and neuter services. 

Spaying (for females) and neutering (for males) are surgical sterilization procedures that prevent unwanted litters and offer a wide range of health and behavioral benefits. In this blog from a Leesburg, VA veterinarian, we’ll explore why this procedure is so important, when to schedule it, and what to expect before and after surgery.

Why Spaying and Neutering Pets Is Important

Spaying and neutering offer numerous advantages for both pets and their families. In addition to reducing the homeless pet population, sterilization can extend your pet’s life and help them avoid serious health problems down the road.

Key benefits of pet sterilization includes:

• Reduced risk of uterine infections and mammary cancer in females
• Elimination of testicular cancer and reduced prostate issues in males
• Lower chances of roaming or escaping in search of mates
• Decrease in aggressive or territorial behavior
• Prevention of unplanned litters
• Sterilized pets are often more affectionate, focused, and easier to train. 

When Should You Spay or Neuter Your Pet?

Timing matters when it comes to spaying and neutering. The best age depends on your pet’s species, breed, size, and health status.

• Dogs: Typically spayed/neutered between 6–9 months of age. Large breeds may benefit from waiting until growth plates have closed (around 12–18 months).
• Cats: Usually spayed/neutered by 5–6 months, often before their first heat cycle.
• Rabbits and other small mammals: Should always be evaluated by a veterinarian for timing.

We always recommend a consultation to assess your pet and determine the safest and most effective time for the procedure.

What to Expect Before and After Surgery

Before surgery, our team will perform a full physical exam and may run pre-anesthetic bloodwork to ensure your pet is healthy for the procedure. On the day of surgery, your pet will be under general anesthesia, and we’ll monitor vital signs closely throughout.

After surgery:

• Your pet will go home the same day with pain medication
• You’ll receive post-op care instructions
• Limit activity
• Use a recovery collar or cone as needed to keep pets from worrying at incision site.

Most pets bounce back quickly, with full recovery in 10–14 days.

Spaying and Neutering Myths Debunked

There are many myths around pet sterilization. Let’s clear up a few common misconceptions:

• Myth: “My pet should have one litter first.” This is unnecessary and increases health risks.
• Myth: “It will change my pet’s personality.” Spaying/neutering may reduce aggression but doesn’t affect affection or intelligence.
• Myth: “Indoor pets don’t need to be sterilized.” Accidents happen—and the health benefits remain.

The American Veterinary Medical Association has a great article explaining the benefits of pet sterilization and debunking these and other myths. 

Pet Overpopulation: How You Can Help

Spaying and neutering are also powerful ways to combat pet overpopulation. Each year, millions of cats and dogs end up in shelters—many of them the result of unplanned litters. Sterilizing your pet helps reduce strain on rescue organizations and improves the lives of animals in our community.

Are There Risks to the Procedure?

All surgeries carry some risk, but spaying and neutering are among the most commonly performed procedures in veterinary medicine. Risks are minimal, and our team takes every precaution to ensure your pet’s safety.

We tailor anesthesia protocols based on your pet’s size, breed, and medical history. Recovery is typically smooth with proper at-home care and follow-up.

Of course, if you were to spot signs of trouble, such as redness, pus, swelling, discoloration, or foul odors at the incision site, you’d want to bring your pet in for emergency care. 

Sterilization and Long-Term Wellness

Spaying and neutering are often part of a broader wellness plan that includes:

• Regular vet exams
• Vaccinations
• Great nutrition 
• Behavior support

Our veterinarians will guide you through each step and answer any questions. We aim to provide not only the best surgical care but also long-term support for your pet’s health.

Schedule Your Pet’s Spay or Neuter At Our Leesburg, VA Veterinarians Today

If you’ve been thinking about spaying or neutering your pet, don’t wait. It’s one of the best ways to improve their health and prevent an unwanted litter. At Lansdowne Animal Hospital in Leesburg, VA, we provide gentle, experienced care for pets at every stage.

Visit our Service Page to learn more about the services we offer and the type of pets we see. Spaying and neutering pets is a safe, proven way to support their well-being—and improve our community. Call us to schedule a consultation today.

This blog is meant to be informational only. Always consult with your veterinarian for the right medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment plan for your pet and follow their advice.