The Benefits of Desexing Your Pet

At Family Vets Western Sydney, we’re often asked, “Is desexing really necessary?” In short — yes. Desexing your pet offers a range of benefits for their health, behaviour, and your local community. Whether you have a playful kitten or a growing pup, here’s why desexing is one of the most important steps in responsible pet ownership.

1. Prevents Unwanted Litters

Unplanned litters are a major contributor to animal overpopulation in Australia. Desexing helps reduce the number of unwanted puppies and kittens that end up in shelters or are abandoned.

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By desexing your pet, you’re playing an important part in controlling the pet population and giving all companion animals a better chance at a loving home.

2. Health Benefits for Male and Female Pets

Desexing offers several long-term health benefits, including:

• Females: Reduced risk of mammary tumours and no chance of uterine infections (pyometra) or tumours.
• Males: Prevention of testicular cancer and reduced risk of prostate disease.

These procedures can also help prevent conditions that may require emergency surgery later in life.

3. Better Behaviour

You may notice a positive change in your pet’s behaviour after desexing:

• Less tendency to roam or escape
• Reduced aggression or dominance
• Less marking or spraying
• Calmer, more predictable temperament

Desexing Costs and Why They Vary

One of the most common questions we receive is: How much does it cost to desex my pet?

What Affects the Price of Desexing?

Costs can vary depending on:

• Species: Dogs generally cost more to desex than cats - as it is more complex.
• Gender: Female desexing (speying) is more complicated than male desexing (neutering).
• Weight: Larger animals require more anaesthetic, time, materials and monitoring.
• Reproductive Status: Female pets on heat or pregnant incur additional costs as they take
  more time.

Why It's Best to Desex Before the First Heat

Desexing before the first heat cycle is recommended because:

• It significantly reduces the risk of mammary tumours
• It avoids extra surgical fees often charged when pets are on heat

Estimated Price Ranges

(Prices may vary - ask us for an exact quote for your pet).

• Male Dog over 25kg: $380–$580
• Female Dog over 25 kg: $500–$700
• Female on heat: Additional fees apply – speak with our team
• Male Cat: $170–$200
• Female Cat: $200–$300

NSW Laws & Registration Savings

In New South Wales, pets must be lifetime registered. The NSW Pet Registry offers significant fee reductions for desexed pets:

• Desexed dog: Lifetime registration = $66
• Non-desexed dog: Lifetime registration = $234

This not only encourages responsible pet ownership but also rewards you for doing the right thing.

Safe, Same-Day Procedure

Desexing is a common, low-risk procedure performed daily at our clinic. It’s usually completed in one day, with pets admitted in the morning and ready to go home in the afternoon.

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To ensure your pet’s safety under anaesthetic, they must be fasted from the night before surgery. This means no food after 10:00 PM the night before. Water may be allowed until early morning — our team will give you detailed instructions when booking.

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We use modern anaesthetics, pain relief, and gold-standard surgical protocols. Most pets recover quickly with a little rest, and we’ll provide clear post-operative care guidance before discharge.

When to Desex Your Pet

We generally recommend desexing between 4–6 months of age, but it can vary based on species, breed and health status. Our vets will advise the best timing for your pet to ensure optimal results and recovery.

Book a Desexing Appointment

Our friendly team at Family Vets Western Sydney is here to answer your questions and make the process easy for you and your pet.

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Visit Us: 43 Burnie Street, Blacktown

Call Us: (02) 9622 1200

Book Online Today!