In commemoration of World Spay Day (Tuesday 27 February) the global animal-welfare organisation Four Paws urges the importance of spaying and neutering health-care procedures for puppies and kittens as well as older dogs and cats. With the global spotlight on spaying and neutering the organisation has championed unpacking the myths and misconceptions about the sterilisation procedures that may prevent pet owners from taking action.

Four Paws animal-welfare scientist Sabrina Karl said: “A pet should be spayed if there is the risk of unwanted reproduction either in their own household indoors or if the pets can roam around outdoors. In a country where cat and dog overpopulation is an issue spaying animals is crucial to avoid an increase of stray animal populations including indoor pets as well.”

More reasons to spay and neuter your animals would be if there are various pets at home or outdoors and the risk of fighting or hurting one another exist due to natural competition, especially if they are of the same sex or are aggressive towards humans triggered by sexual hormones.

Karl advises that dog owners should consider neutering their male dogs if they show behaviours that indicate a high stress level from staying inside and trying to escape to reach females in heat outside, intensely howling, scratching doors or refusing to eat.

Dr Annelize Roos of Cape Town recently worked with Four Paws at a PDSA sterilisation drive-sponsored community-outreach project held in Uniondale, a small town in the Little Karoo in the Western Cape, where more than 450 animals were spayed and neutered. The veterinarian from the Envirovet CVC veterinary clinic, who has completed thousands of spaying and neutering procedures, has identified over the years various myths surrounding spaying.

She said: “One common misconception is that male dogs that are neutered are not effective guard dogs or are unable to hunt or track as well as before they were spayed or neutered. There is a belief that a female dog must have a litter before she can be considered a ‘good dog’, which is false. Spaying and neutering can still benefit them without diminishing their capacity to carry out their roles.”

Neutering can reduce sexually-driven aggression and help male dogs to stay focused on their guard and hunting dog duties. Ultimately, these procedures can help to keep pets healthier and happier for longer.

Myths surrounding spaying or neutering pets

False: Dogs and cats get fat if they are neutered or spayed

True: Spaying and neutering does not cause weight gain if pet owners continue to provide healthy diets and exercise. While the health benefits of spaying and neutering outweigh the risks, pet owners should be aware of the importance of proper diet and exercise for their pets regardless of their reproductive status.

False: That a dog or cat’s personality changes after spaying or neutering

True: Spaying and neutering can reduce undesirable behaviours such as fighting and urine marking. However, there is no reliable evidence to suggest that it changes a pet’s personality. Responsible pet ownership, including regular exercise and socialisation, is important for all cats and dogs.

False: Neutering and spaying are unaffordable

True: While spaying and neutering can be expensive many vets have special packages, community pet-health centres offer free or reduced-cost services, and animal-welfare organisations often offer spaying and neutering procedures at reduced costs. This can help pet owners make the responsible decision to spay or neuter their pets without breaking the bank.