Note: Desexing is the term generally used in Australia to refer to surgical sterilisation that permanently renders an animal incapable of reproducing. However, the legal definition may differ depending on the jurisdiction. Hence, sterilisation is used throughout this article.
Sterilisation is an effective strategy to prevent unwanted/unplanned breeding in companion animals. The RSPCA receives over 87,000 animals every year and many of these unwanted animals are the result of unplanned breeding.
The RSPCA strongly advocates for all companion animals (pets) to be humanely sterilised wherever feasible and appropriate for the individual and species, as early as possible under veterinary supervision.
What is sterilisation?
Sterilisation includes all procedures and techniques that render the animal unable to produce offspring.
Surgical sterilisation
Surgical sterilisation is a routine surgery performed by a qualified veterinarian to permanently prevent breeding and includes:
- Gonadectomy – in which the veterinarian removes the animal’s reproductive organs. In males this is called castration (the testicles are removed) and in females it is called spaying (this can be ovariohysterectomy in which the ovaries and uterus are removed, or ovariectomy in which just the ovaries are removed).
- Gonad sparing sterilisation options – in which the veterinarian performs a surgery that renders the animal unable to reproduce but does not remove the reproductive organs (e.g., vasectomy which cuts and seals the tubes that carry sperm so a male cannot inseminate a female).
Surgical sterilisation is an important tool to reduce the number of unwanted dogs and cats in the community.
Non-surgical sterilisation
Non-surgical sterilisation may include options such as hormonal downregulation, chemical castration, or other emerging options such as immunocontraception. The duration of sterilisation varies with these options but with most options, sterilisation is temporary.
The options for sterilisation vary in different species, so it is important to speak to your veterinarian about your specific companion animal and what options are available and appropriate for them.
Why should I have my pet sterilised?
Sterilisation is important because it helps to ensure fewer unwanted and homeless animals. Depending on the species, method used, and individual, sterilisation may also reduce the risk of certain conditions and reduce some undesirable behaviours.
For these reasons, sterilisation is recommended for companion animals wherever feasible and appropriate for the individual and species.
You should discuss the prevention of unwanted/unplanned breeding with your veterinarian. The appropriate decision regarding sterilisation (including timing and approach) depends on the species, individual animal, and circumstances (e.g., local legal requirements). Your veterinarian can advise on the benefits and risks for your individual companion animal and the most appropriate course of action.
The appropriate age for sterilisation also depends on factors such as the species, individual animal, and circumstances and should be discussed with your veterinarian. There may be increased risks of certain health concerns with surgery and gonadectomy in some species and individual animals and these should also be discussed with your veterinarian.
Some states/territories and local councils require that domestic dogs and cats are desexed by a certain age (the age varies between jurisdictions). You can find more information on which states/territories have mandatory desexing of dogs and cats here.
For more information specifically on sterilisation/desexing of specific species please see the articles linked below.
