ANSWERS

1. If an owner is not intending to breed from a bitch, list 5 advantages of spaying?
   • Unwanted puppies are prevented.
   • False pregnancy is avoided.
   • Pyometra (accumulation of pus within the uterus - a very serious bacterial infection) is avoided.
   • The risk of mammary neoplasia is reduced.
   • There will be none of the mess and hassle associated with seasons.
2. What is the medical term for the removal of the uterus and ovaries?
   Ovariohysterectomy.
3. Why is an ovariohysterectomy preferential to an ovariectomy?
   An ovariectomy is removal of the ovaries. The uterus is left intact. The main disadvantage of this method is that pyometra remains a risk.
4. When is the best time to spay a bitch?
   Either before her first season (at approximately 6 months of age) or when she is midway between seasons.
5. Why should a bitch not be spayed during pseudocyesis (false pregnancy)?
   It is possible that she may remain psychologically in a state of false pregnancy for the rest of her life.
6. What alternative to spaying will prevent the occurrence of oestrus?
   Medical inhibition of a season by progestogen/androgen compounds. Depot injections may be administered during anoestrus to prevent the next anticipated heat.
7. List side effects that may arise from the medical inhibition of heat.
   • Increased appetite and subsequent weight gain.
   • Lethargy.
   • Mammary enlargement.
   • Coat changes.
   • Possible temperament changes.
   • The risk of inducing pyometra.
8. Many owners have reservations about spaying. Give examples of 2 potential disadvantages and how they might be overcome.
   • Weight gain - regulate with dietary control.
   • Urinary incontinence - this affects only a small percentage of bitches and successful medical treatment is available to treat this condition.
9. List 3 advantages of cat castration.
   • The tendency to roam is reduced.
   • Spraying to mark territory is reduced (and the urine smells less pungent).
   • The cat is less likely to catch diseases such as feline leukaemia transmitted in blood and saliva and associated with mating and fighting.
10. List 3 advantages of dog castration.
    • Prevention of testicular neoplasms.
    • Reduced incidence of prostatic cancer.
    • Reduction of excessive libido which may lead to dominance and aggression in some dogs.