In order to ensure that family cats and dogs are in good health, it’s important to take them for regular visits to the veterinarian. In addition to being spayed and neutered, both cats and dogs need regular wellness check-ups along with other types of preventative care. This includes ensuring that a pet’s oral hygiene is addressed.

The Importance of Spaying or Neutering Pets

It’s important to note that in order to ensure cats and dogs don’t become pregnant is to have them spayed or neutered. This is the only totally effective method of birth control. Cats and dogs can actually become pregnant as soon as they are five months old. According to SpayUSA.org, it’s a good idea for cats and dogs to be spayed before they have their first litter.

Fertile dogs, for example, can give birth to an average of two litters a year. Each litter may consist of anywhere from six to ten puppies. These puppies can be spayed or neutered as soon as they are two months old. Over the course of seven years, a single female cat can give birth to as many as 4,948 kittens. Once they reach two months old, however, they can also be spayed or neutered.

Spaying and Neutering Statistics

The American Pet Products Association conducted a survey on the incidence of spaying and neutering between 2015 and 2016. The results showed the following percentages:

• Pet dogs: 86% were either spayed or neutered
• Pet cats: 90% were either spayed or neutered

it’s clear from these statistics that more pet owners are realizing the overall benefits of spaying a dog or cat.

The Importance of Obtaining Regular Cat and Dog Dental Care

Veterinarians will inform pet owners that it’s essential to brush their pet’s teeth. Even though it’s not necessary to floss a dog’s teeth, pet owners can reach 90% of their dog’s teeth with brushing. Despite this recommendation, it’s unfortunate that 65% of pet owners are not taking care of their pets’ oral hygiene. Both dogs and cats can develop periodontal disease by the time they are three years old. It’s been found that this applies to 80% of dogs and 70% of cats, which are significant figures.

Schedule a Visit to Your Local Veterinarian

Since you care about your pets, it’s important for them to receive regular wellness checkups and preventative care. As previously stated, neutering or spaying a dog and cat is recommended. In addition to neutering or spaying a dog or cat, these family pets also need to have their teeth cleaned on a regular basis. While some pet owners may brush their pet’s teeth, others may choose to have this taken care of by a professional. Once you schedule a visit with your veterinarian, you’ll be doing all that you can to ensure your pet’s health and wellness.