Despite being well-known, pet castration still raises many questions. Due to some shared information without exact knowledge, some believe that castrating their Shih Tzu may put them at risk or cause suffering.
In reality, the procedure, done with safety and professional supervision, can bring benefits to the Shih Tzu’s life, regardless of gender. To understand the specifics of the castration process, let’s explore some of the main myths and truths surrounding the topic.
Myths about castration:
- Weight Gain: The idea that Shih Tzus gain weight after castration is debunked. Weight issues are linked to factors like sedentary lifestyle, improper food intake, hormonal changes, etc. Maintaining a routine of walks and play is crucial for your pet, whether before or after castration.
- Emotional Impact: It’s a common belief that castration can make pets lazy, lethargic, and low on energy. However, such changes are more related to natural maturity than the procedure itself. Castration doesn’t transform animals from aggressive to docile or vice versa. Training them from an early age is key to a well-behaved pet.
- Cruelty and Danger: The notion that castration is cruel and dangerous is false. The surgery is conducted under general anesthesia, ensuring the Shih Tzu feels no pain and has a quick recovery. For females, a small abdominal incision is made, and for males, it’s even shallower, not entering the abdominal cavity.
Truths about castration:
- Health Benefits: Castration offers health advantages, notably in preventing common cancers like prostate and breast tumors. Castrating before six months of age prevents 90% of breast tumors.
- Timing Matters: While castration isn’t exclusive to pre-puberty, experts suggest doing it around the first or second heat cycle. This timing is considered effective in altering unwanted behaviors and preventing diseases. The ideal age may vary, so consult your veterinarian.
- Behavioral Changes: Castration can lead to behavioral changes, especially when done at a young age. Reproductive needs that cause aggression and excessive vocalization can be reduced. Undesirable habits like territory marking and mounting can be minimized in male Shih Tzus.
Consider the well-being of your Shih Tzu and remember that information is invaluable. Address all doubts with your trusted specialist and talk to other pet owners who have undergone the procedure. You’ll find that castration is not as daunting as it may seem, and many owners go through it without complications!