Does pet insurance cover neutering?
Neutering your pet is one of the most important procedures for guaranteeing their well-being and preventing long-term health issues, as well as slowing uncontrolled breeding. A common question regarding this is, does pet insurance cover neutering? Below, we explain how this insurance works, what benefits it offers and the reasons for carrying out this procedure on your dog or cat.
Is neutering dogs or cats covered by insurance?
In regards to SegurCaixa Adeslas pet insurance policies, preventative neutering has a special price. However, one of the big advantages of taking out this insurance is the access to discounts for these kinds of procedures, consultations and visits at veterinary clinics included in the SegurCaixa Adeslas network. This applies both to dogs and cats if you take out the Complete Scheme.
Also, having insurance makes it easier to plan other related treatments, such as subsequent check-ups or complementary care after surgery. You can check the rates for SegurCaixa Pets, which will depend on whether it is a dog or cat, what sex it is and the weight of the pet.
Why should you consider neutering your pet?
Neutering not only prevents unwanted litters. It also carries multiple health benefits for your pet. Here are the main reasons for neutering:
Main reasons for sterilization
- Preventing serious illnesses: it reduces the risk of breast cancer, ovarian cancer and prostate cancer, as well as uterine infections such as pyometra.
- Birth control: it prevents unwanted litters, helping to reduce pet abandonment.
- Improved behaviour: it often reduces behaviours such as territorial marking, aggression and escaping to look for a mate.
- Increased life expectancy: neutered pets often live longer, as the risks associated with certain illnesses and accidents related to reproduction are lowered.
- Compliance with the Animal Welfare Law: in some autonomous communities of Spain, neutering is recommended or even compulsory in certain circumstances, such as with adopted pets.
How is neutering different in a male compared to a female?
The neutering procedure varies depending on the sex of the pet:
- Males: in male dogs and cats, the procedure consists of surgical castration, which involves removing the testicles. It is a relatively simple procedure with a quick recovery time.
- Females: in females, sterilisation can involve the removal of the ovaries (ovariectomy) or the ovaries and the uterus (ovariohysterectomy). This procedure is more complex than for males, but it is still safe and highly beneficial.
A general anaesthetic is applied in both instances. Post-operative care is essential to ensure good recovery.
Is there an age limit for neutering a pet?
There is no set age limit for neutering a pet, but it is important to bear certain factors in mind:
- Recommended age: generally speaking, sterilisation is recommended at between 6 and 12 months of age, when the pet has reached sexual maturity but before they develop any issues related to reproduction.
- Senior pets: even though neutering older animals can be more risky due to their state of health, it is still possible with prior assessment from a vet. In these cases, an exhaustive analysis is made to ensure the procedure is safe.
Each pet is unique, which is why you should discuss the decision to neuter with a vet so that they can assess the age, state of health and specific needs of the dog or cat.