1. At what age are puppies' tails docked?
2. At what age are female animals spayed?
3. Should a bitch be spayed only after having been on heat?
4. What are the disadvantages of spaying?
5. At what age are male dogs castrated?
6. At what age are tom cats castrated?
7. Will castration make a dog less aggressive?
8. At what age are puppies vaccinated?
9. How is cat flu transmitted?
10. How can I get rid of the cat flu virus?
This is done between three and five days of age. In older pups the process is very painful and general anaesthetic will be required, which could be quite dangerous in young animals. This procedure is illegal in most developed countries if done purely for cosmetic reasons. For that reason the South African Veterinary Council has been discussing the practice with various role players and will in all probability ban it in the near future.
Both bitches and queens are spayed at approximately six months of age, before they come into season. In bitches on heat the operation is more difficult and there are more chances of complications developing.
It is not necessary for a bitch to come into season or having pups before being spayed.. Bitches that have been spayed after their first heat have a statistically higher chance of developing tumours of the milk glands at an older age. The operation is considerably more risky during heat since the blood flow to the uterus is increased to a large extent.
The two main disadvantages are obesity and urinary incontinence. The first problem is easily controlled by regulating the bitch's diet end making sure that she exercises regularly. The latter problem occurs very infrequently and is easily corrected by medication.
Male dogs may be castrated as early as four months of age, but it may be postponed to about six to ten months to enable the dog to grow out better. If the dog has access to fertile bitches it is better to have it done at six months before any unwanted litters pop up.
Because tom cats are prone to develop bladder problems, it is better to castrate them only at about twelve months of age to allow for proper development of the urethra. If the animal however starts roaming or spraying at an early age, this signifies full development and will necessitate castration to prevent unwanted litters or motor vehicle accidents. All castrated cats should be put on one of the modern cat foods available at vets that are specially made to prevent bladder problems.
In most cases castration will reduce aggression. Because aggression is inherited castration is indicated to prevent this unwanted trait from being promoted.
At this practice puppies are vaccinated at six, ten and fourteen weeks. This may differ considerably from your own vet's schedule so contact him/her for more information. In the Article on vaccination of dogs and cats you will find more info.
This dreadful disease is caused by a virus that is found in the vomit and stool of affected animals. The virus is extremely tough and is difficult to get rid of. You can read more about it in the Article on cat flu.
The cat flu virus (Parvovirus) is one of the toughest viruses known. Washable surfaces such as tiles and concrete can be disinfected with chlorine, formalin or a strong antiseptic meant for killing the virus. (Contact your vet for more info). Other surfaces such as grass, soil and carpets are very difficult to disinfect and may harbour the virus for months. Ensure that new dogs have been vaccinated at least twice with the last vaccination at least two weeks before being introduced to an infected property.