For decades, Bob Barker ended The Price Is Right with the reminder to "help control the pet population, have your pet spayed or neutered."

Veterinarians say the benefits go far beyond preventing unwanted litters.

Preventing Life-Threatening Conditions

Dr. Rebekah Hartfield, a veterinarian in Holdenville, said one of the most serious risks for pets left intact is pyometra, an infected uterus that can become life-threatening.

"Dogs and cats that are left intact…can develop an infected uterus. That can be life-threatening very quickly," Hartfield said.

Reducing Cancer Risks

Spaying also lowers the risk of breast and ovarian tumors, particularly in cats and dogs that have gone through heat cycles.

"Cats that have their first heat cycle, their chances of having mammary cancer increase

See Full Page