Although widely known, pet neutering still raises many questions. Due to some misinformation shared without exact knowledge, some people think that neutering their Shih Tzu can put them at risk or cause suffering.
In reality, it is now recognized that the procedure, when done safely and under the supervision of specialized professionals, can bring benefits to the life of Shih Tzu, regardless of gender.
To understand the specifics of the neutering process, let’s explore some of the main myths and truths surrounding the topic.
Myths about neutering:
1. Shih Tzus gain weight after neutering:
Weight gain in dogs and cats is not directly related to neutering but rather to various other factors such as sedentary lifestyle, excessive and incorrect food intake, hormonal changes, and more. Whether before or after neutering, it’s important to maintain a routine for your pet that includes regular walks and playtime.
2. Neutering affects the emotional and personality of Shih Tzus:
It’s common to hear that neutering pets can make them lazier, less enthusiastic, and low in energy. In reality, it’s important to consider that the passage of time naturally brings maturity to Shih Tzus, which might result in a decrease in energy. Neutering, whether male or female, does not transform violent animals into docile ones or vice versa. There is no direct link between the procedure and changes in a Shih Tzu’s personality, although some improvements in behavior related to sexual instincts may be noticed. Proper training from a young age is the key to having well-behaved pets.
3. Neutering is cruel and dangerous:
No! Neutering surgery is performed under general anesthesia, so Shih Tzus don’t feel pain and recover quickly. In female Shih Tzus, only a small incision is made in the abdomen, while in males, the procedure is even less invasive as it doesn’t enter the abdominal cavity.
Truths about neutering:
1. Neutering has health benefits:
The most well-known advantage of neutering is the prevention of common cancers in Shih Tzus, such as prostate and breast cancer. Neutering before six months of age can prevent 90% of breast tumors.
2. Neutering before puberty is ideal:
Neutering is not exclusively performed before puberty, but many experts recommend it during this phase, preferably before the first litter. This can be more effective in altering some unwanted behaviors and preventing diseases. The ideal age should be discussed with your veterinarian, as it may vary depending on the size and other specific factors of each pet.
3. It can change some characteristic behaviors and reduce agitation:
Changes in the behavior of dogs and cats due to neutering are often linked to the age of the animal, as younger animals are more adaptable to habit changes. Neutering can reduce aggression and excessive meowing in cats and eliminate unpleasant behaviors like mounting people, which are common in some male Shih Tzus when they are not yet adults.
Consider what is best for your Shih Tzu’s health, and remember that information is always valuable. Address all your doubts with a trusted specialist and talk to other owners who have undergone the procedure. You will see that neutering is not as daunting as it may seem, and many owners go through it without complications.