Abstract
Neutering (including spaying) has now become a widely used population control measure for companion animals. Dogs and cats as young as 8 weeks of age are neutered, often the majority of them at 4-6 months of age. Many owners prefer to neuter their animals at an early age because it is easier to perform the surgery, and leads to less pain and faster healing as compared to adults. However, in recent years, concerns have been raised due to health complications associated with the early gonadectomy.