Why Desexing Is About More Than Population Control

Most pet parents are familiar with the idea of desexing (spaying or neutering) as a way to prevent unwanted litters, but did you know it also has important health and behavioral benefits?

At Creature Comforts, we believe desexing is one of the most important decisions you can make to protect your pet’s long-term wellbeing, not just to help with population control.

Here’s why it matters more than you might think.

Desexing—also known as spaying (females) or neutering (males)—is a routine surgical procedure that removes your pet’s reproductive organs. It’s performed under general anesthesia and is one of the most commonly done surgeries in veterinary medicine.

But beyond preventing pregnancy, it also supports health, behavior, and community welfare.

1. Prevents Reproductive Cancers & Infections

• Spaying helps prevent pyometra, a potentially life-threatening uterine infection in females.
• It also reduces the risk of mammary gland tumors, especially when done before the first heat cycle.
• Neutering reduces the risk of testicular cancer and certain prostate conditions in males.

2. Supports a Longer, Healthier Life

Desexed pets are less likely to suffer from certain cancers and infections—meaning they often live longer, healthier lives. Studies show neutered male dogs live up to 18% longer, and spayed females up to 23% longer.

Desexing can also help reduce or prevent unwanted behaviors, especially if done before sexual maturity.

• Roaming: Unneutered pets may wander in search of a mate, increasing the risk of accidents or fights.
• Marking & spraying: Neutering can reduce urine marking in both dogs and cats.
• Aggression or mounting: Hormonal behaviors like dominance or excessive mounting often decrease after desexing.
• Yowling & vocalising: Female cats in heat can be extremely vocal—spaying stops this cycle.

Hong Kong has a high number of stray cats and dogs, especially in urban areas and around shelters. Desexing not only helps control overpopulation but also reduces the pressure on rescue groups and improves the overall welfare of animals in our community.

Every desexed pet contributes to a more compassionate and manageable pet population.

The ideal timing depends on your pet’s:

• Species (cat or dog)
• Breed and size
• Lifestyle and any existing medical conditions

As a general guideline:

• 🐱 Cats can be desexed as early as 4–6 months
• 🐶 Small to medium dogs are often desexed around 6 months
• 🐶 Large breeds may benefit from waiting a little longer (9–18 months), depending on growth and health risks

Our vets will tailor the timing based on what’s best for your individual pet.