Should I Neuter My Pet? Everything You Need to Know…

At 2Feet4Paws Veterinary Clinic in Dubai, one of the most common questions we hear from pet parents is:
“Should I neuter my pet?”

Neutering is a big decision—and a responsible one. This blog is here to guide you through the benefits, timing, and recovery process so you can make the best choice for your pet family member.

Neutering is the surgical procedure that prevents pets from reproducing:

• Spaying (for female pets) removes the ovaries and usually the uterus.
• Castration (for male pets) involves removing the testicles.

The procedure is performed under general anaesthesia and is completely safe when done by our experienced and licensed veterinarians here at 2Feet4Paws.

Neutering service isn’t just about preventing unwanted litters. There are some other significant reasons for neutering including:

• Greatly reduces the risk of mammary, ovarian, and testicular cancers.
• Removes the danger of pyometra, a life threatening uterine infection in females.
• Helps avoid prostate problems in male pets as they age.
• Having an unneutered female pet that ‘comes into season’ regularly can be disruptive to the home, especially multi-pet households. Spayed females no longer come into heat.

• Can decrease inappropriate behaviours such as mounting, roaming and territorial spraying or marking.
• Encourages a calmer, more settled temperament—especially in multi-pet households.

• Dubai faces a real challenge with stray animals. Neutering helps control the pet population and reduces the number of homeless animals in shelters or on the streets.

There’s no universal rule, but here’s a general guideline:

• Cats and small to medium-sized dogs: Best neutered around 5–6 months of age.
• Large breed dogs: We recommend waiting until 12–18 months of age or whenever your dog has finished growing, before neutering.
• Female dogs: we usually wait until 8-12weeks after their first season (oestrus), which usually occurs from 5-18months of age.

We recommend all dogs, cats and rabbits book in for a complimentary Teenage Health Check with our veterinary nurses when your pet is 5-12months. At this visit we will give them a full check up and make a personalised recommendation for if & when your pet should be neutered, based on your pet’s age, breed, size, and lifestyle.

Neutering is a routine procedure, and most pets recover with minimal discomfort. Here’s what to expect:

• Recovery time: Typically 10 days.
• Initial symptoms: Slight discomfort, sleepiness, and reduced appetite for the first 24–48 hours.

• Restricted activity: No jumping or rough play for first 7 days and on-lead walks only.
• Medications: We send all patients home with extra pain relief for 3 days to keep them as comfortable as possible.

• Weight Gain: While neutering can lead to a decrease in metabolism, weight gain is typically due to overfeeding and lack of exercise. Monitoring diet and ensuring regular activity can prevent obesity.
• Surgical Risks: As with any anaesthesia or surgery, there are risks, but neutering is one of the most common veterinary procedures and is generally very safe. We perform preop blood tests and place IV catheters to keep procedures as safe as possible. Post-operative care is crucial for a smooth recovery.

Neutering is a personal decision, but one that brings lifelong health and behavioural benefits for most pets. It’s also a positive step toward reducing pet overpopulation and promoting responsible pet ownership here in the UAE.

We’re here to help you make an informed choice that’s right for you and your pet.

Book in today for a Teenage Health Check with our team.

Did you know? 2Feet4Paws Club Members enjoy up to 15% off neutering procedures as part of their membership benefits.*

➡️Not a member yet? Join the Club today  and start saving on essential pet healthcare!

*Discount varies based on membership tier selected.