Why Neutering Your Dog or Cat Matters: A Proactive Step for Better Health and Behavior

At Two Rivers Vet Hospital, we believe in taking steps that support long-term health and well-being—not just for your pet, but for our community, too. One of the simplest, most effective ways to do that is by neutering your dog or cat.

Neutering offers many benefits beyond preventing unwanted litters. For male pets, the procedure can help reduce hormone-driven behaviors like roaming, urine marking, and aggression. This means fewer fights with other animals, fewer escapes from the backyard, and a calmer pet at home.

Of course, reducing the number of unwanted puppies and kittens remains one of the most important goals in veterinary medicine. Thousands of healthy pets are euthanized every day in shelters across the country due to overpopulation. Neutering is a compassionate, responsible way to help reduce that heartbreaking number.

When should you neuter your pet? At our Fargo vet clinic, we typically recommend neutering at around 5 to 6 months of age. For giant-breed dogs, we may suggest waiting a few additional months to support proper growth and joint development. The timing can vary based on your pet’s size, breed, and health history, which is why this decision is always best made with your veterinarian.

If you’re unsure about the right time to schedule a neuter for your dog or cat, our veterinarians in Fargo ND are happy to talk through your options and help you make the best choice.

At Two Rivers Vet Hospital, we’re here to support your pet through every stage of life—with thoughtful, compassionate care.