Spay and Neuter Services in Scottsdale, AZ

Why Is It Important to Spay or Neuter Your Pet?

Choosing to spay or neuter your pet is one of the most responsible and impactful decisions you can make as a pet owner. In addition to eliminating the risk of accidental litters, these procedures offer critical health and behavioral benefits that improve your pet’s overall quality of life.

• Reduces the risk of unwanted litters
• Helps prevent reproductive cancers and infections
• Minimizes unwanted behaviors like marking, roaming, and aggression
• Supports local efforts to control pet overpopulation in Scottsdale

What Are the Health Benefits of Spaying or Neutering?

Spaying and neutering are more than population control—they are preventive healthcare tools. At Kaibab Animal Hospital, we perform these procedures with your pet’s lifelong wellness in mind.

• Prevents life-threatening uterine infections (pyometra) and reduces the risk of mammary tumors in female pets
• Reduces the risk of prostate issues in males
• Decreases hormone-driven behaviors, such as aggression, urinary marking,  and escape attempts

When Should You Spay or Neuter Your Cat or Dog?

What Is the Recommended Age to Spay or Neuter?

We practice lifestyle medicine and tailor the spay and neutering timing based on our clients’ goals and the patients’ health and lifestyle. Our doctors will discuss with you the recommended time to spay or neuter your pet, as well as the benefits associated with the different timings.

Can You Spay or Neuter an Older Pet?

Absolutely. While earlier is generally preferred, senior pets can be safely spayed or neutered with proper evaluation. At Kaibab Animal Hospital, we perform thorough pre-surgical assessments and tailor anesthesia and pain protocols to meet your pet’s specific needs.

What to Expect from a Spay or Neuter Appointment

How Do I Prepare My Pet for Spay/Neuter Surgery?

Before surgery, our team will provide clear instructions and personalized recommendations. Generally, we recommend:

• No food or water after midnight before the procedure (unless advised otherwise)
• Bring your pet’s favorite blanket or toy for comfort
• Ensure your pet is calm and secure during transport
• Make sure your pet has time to use the restroom prior to coming

What Happens During the Procedure?

Your pet will be under general anesthesia, monitored closely by our trained veterinary surgical team. We follow strict safety protocols to ensure a smooth and low-stress experience.

• Cat and dog spay/neuter surgeries typically take under an hour
• Post-operative care is closely supervised to support recovery
• Pain management and integrative therapies are available as needed

What Is the Recovery Time After Spay or Neuter Surgery?

Most pets recover within 10–14 days, though this varies based on age, size, and activity level. We recommend:

• Keeping your pet calm and indoors for at least a week
• Monitoring the incision for any redness or swelling
• Following all aftercare instructions provided by our team

If your pet shows signs of discomfort or unusual behavior during recovery, we’re just a call away.

How to Care for Your Pet After Spaying or Neutering

Your role in your pet’s healing is essential. Here are the top aftercare tips we share with our clients:

• Limit activity: No running, jumping, or rough play
• Prevent licking: Use an e-collar or alternative to protect the incision
• Monitor healing: Watch for signs of redness, swelling, or discharge
• Follow instructions: Adhere to prescribed medications and care steps
• Return if needed: Come back for follow-up visits or suture removal if required

Can Spaying or Neutering Change Your Pet’s Behavior?

This is a common yet challenging question to answer. The majority of pets do not experience any behavior changes. However, there are certain unwanted behaviors that are hormonally driven and can improve after a spay or neuter procedure, such as: 

• Decreased territorial marking or spraying
• Reduced aggression toward other animals
• Less desire to roam or escape
• A calmer, more settled demeanor, especially in males

Spaying or neutering your pet can alter their metabolism, leading to weight gain. If you are noticing weight gain following these procedures, please schedule a consultation with one of our doctors.

What Does Spaying or Neutering Cost?

Costs for spay and neuter procedures can vary based on:

• Your pet’s species (dog vs. cat)
• Their age and size
• Any additional pre-surgical diagnostics needed

To get an accurate estimate for your pet’s procedure, please contact our front desk. We’re happy to discuss your options and what’s included in our surgical package.

Why Choose Kaibab Animal Hospital for Spay and Neuter Surgery?

When it comes to your pet’s care, you deserve a team that prioritizes precision, comfort, and compassion.

• Advanced monitoring and anesthetic protocols
• Integrative care options like acupuncture, pain relief, and laser therapy
• Experienced surgeons with training in both conventional and holistic medicine
• On-site urgent care and emergency readiness
• A warm, trusted environment where your pet’s health and safety come first