There are many people who are extremely passionate about spaying and neutering dogs and cats. Most of these individuals want to put an end to pet overpopulation. Others, however, simply feel spaying and neutering is best for the health of dogs and cats. If you are on the fence about spaying and neutering, there is plenty of information available to help you make your decision.What does a Spaying or Neutering Procedure Entail?Although it is extremely common to spay or neuter pets, it is serious surgery. Male dogs and cats are castrated. This means there testicles are removed. Female cats undergo a procedure that removes their uterus, Fallopian tubes, and ovaries.When Should a Dog or Cat be Spayed or Neutered?Of course, a dog or cat of any age can be spayed or neutered. The recommended age, however, is right around 6 months. This is before the male hormones have kicked into full gear. It is also usually before the female dog or cat goes through her first heat cycle. Avoiding the cycle all together is ideal.Are Their Risks to the Procedure?As with any surgery, there are risks associated with spaying and neutering. Since the procedures are performed all the time, however, risks are minimal. The most common risk is infection. Usually this is indicated by extreme redness and swelling at the incision site. If pet owners notice this, they should contact a veterinarian immediately.What are the Male Benefits of Neutering?There are many benefits of neutering a male dog or cat. Owner sanity is one. Removing the dog or cat's testicles eliminates the aggressive tendencies in males. Male dogs and cats also spray urine to mark their territories. This can leave homes smelling awful for months. Neutering eliminates this problem. The males no longer have the urge to spray.The other main benefit of male neutering deals with health. Dogs and cats who have not been neutered have a strong possibility of developing prostate problems or testicular cancer. Removing the testicles eliminates the testicular worry, and minimizes prostate issues.What are the Female Benefits of Spaying?The benefits of spaying a female dog or cat are also twofold. The lives of pet owners are much easier with a spayed animal. Unspayed females can have heat cycles that last up to 21 days. This can get messy with blood stains all over the house. She can also get moody and restless until she gets pregnant.Health is another reason to spay your female dog or cat. Once they are spayed, they are much less likely to develop breast cancer or tumors. An infection called pyometritis is also much less common in spayed dogs and cats. This infection can be life-threatening.Is the Procedure Expensive?Since spaying and neutering are surgical procedures, there is money involved. The cost is, however, quite affordable. Also, the money you will save in the long run is great. A pet with cancer, for example, costs much more than a simple neutering or spaying procedure. If you have adopted your pet from an Animal Welfare organisation they will often supply this service at low cost or in some cases give you a voucher for a reduced cost at a local veterinarian. Sometimes your adoption fee includes the cost of this and when the procedure is completed you can return to the shelter or rescue group for a refund.There is one obvious reason why people would not want to spay or neuter their dogs and cats: offspring. If you don't care about puppies and kittens, however, sterilization is a smart choice. Neutering and spaying improves dog and cat health and pet owner sanity.To stop overpopulation of cats and dogs though it is a very good public spirited action you should take