Home Page

Pediatric Information

Pediatric Spays and Neuters - By Dr. Susan Calverley, DVM

Pediatric or juvenile, spays and neuters refer to the altering of kittens and puppies less then the traditional 6 months of age.  We spay and neuter our pets for many reasons. 

Probably the most important reason is to prevent them from reproducing and contributing the overpopulation of unwanted pets roaming our streets. 

Traditionally veterinarians have performed this surgery once a puppy or kitten is closer to its adult body weight but before its first heat to avoid pregnancy or around 6 months of age.

In 1980, the SPCA of Oregon started doing this procedure on puppies and kittens that were 8-9 weeks of age.  This practice has become very common among humane societies and SPCA’s across North America because it enables them to adopt out puppies and kittens that cannot reproduce.

From a veterinarian’s point of view there are several benefits from surgery in kittens this age.  The surgery is easier, the uterus and ovaries are smaller, there is less fat in the abdomen to get in the way, and the blood vessels are smaller and easier to tie off.  This also translates into the surgery being less traumatic to the patient. 

The kittens also recover just as quickly as or faster than older patients.  The main concern is to make sure the kittens do not get cold or low blood sugar.  These concerns can be addressed by good supportive care and warming, not fasting them longer than 4 hours and feeding them quickly post operatively.  These kittens get offered food within 2 hours after surgery. 
The Fraser Valley Humane Society is committed to helping animals that cannot help themselves.  Pediatric spays and neuters are a safe and innovative way to meet this commitment to our community.

DR. SUSAN CALVERLEY - has lived in Mission for almost 17 years.

The Mission Veterinary Clinic has been a supporter of the FVHS since 1999.

You can visit her website at www.missvet.ca


Home Page Donate Now