Spaying And Neutering Your Pets Is The Best Way To Keep Them Healthy And Available For Adoption, Says Animal Shelter Official In A Letter To The Editor (

Some people are disturbed at the thought of the cats or fetuses being killed. Others think it is a strategy to fight pet overpopulation and to avoid euthanasia of healthy adult animals when shelter resources are limited. Animal shelters approach the issue in many ways. The issue is emotional on both sides. Proponents of spaying don't like having to euthanize cats or their fetuses. Pregnant cats are often not in the best condition to care for their babies. Spaying a pregnant cat will allow her to spend minimal time in the shelter and be available for adoption much quicker. If she has a litter, she may be able to go to a foster home. Some animal advocates argue that it is more compassionate to allow a pregnant animal to deliver and care for her young children. When pregnant animals are spayed, they may be more at risk for complications after surgery, including bleeding. Some cat owners might not want to adopt an older cat. Most cats can be spayed and neutered before they are of reproductive age. More and more cats are born each year. More stray cats will appear. This is why it is so important to teach owners to spay and neuter their pets. If you suspect your pet is sick, immediately call your local veterinary office. . . .