Veterinary Services
What veterinary services are available at VCA Burlington Network of Animal Hospitals?
VCA Burlington Network of Animal Hospitals offers full-service veterinary care, including wellness exams, diagnostics, surgery, and preventive medicine.
Our services include spays and neuters, vaccinations, dental care, radiology, laboratory testing, pain management, and senior pet wellness — all delivered by experienced veterinary teams.
Choosing a hospital with integrated services ensures continuity of care, faster diagnoses, and a more personalized approach to your pet’s long-term health.
Do you offer allergy and itchy skin relief for pets in Burlington?
Yes, VCA Burlington Network of Animal Hospitals provides allergy testing and treatment plans for pets suffering from itchy skin, rashes, or chronic irritation.
We use diagnostic tools like skin scrapings, blood tests, and elimination diets to identify allergens, followed by targeted therapies such as medicated shampoos, antihistamines, or immunotherapy.
Early intervention can prevent secondary infections and improve your pet’s quality of life — especially during seasonal allergy peaks in Ontario.
What is included in a wellness exam for pets at VCA Burlington?
A wellness exam at VCA Burlington includes a full physical checkup, weight assessment, dental evaluation, and preventive screenings tailored to your pet’s age and breed.
We may recommend bloodwork, parasite testing, or vaccinations during the visit to ensure your pet stays protected and healthy year-round.
Regular wellness exams help detect issues early — from arthritis to organ dysfunction — allowing for timely treatment and better long-term outcomes.
Do you offer microchipping for pets in Burlington?
Yes, VCA Burlington Network of Animal Hospitals offers microchipping services to help permanently identify your pet.
A microchip is a small, safe device implanted under the skin that stores your contact information and can be scanned by shelters or clinics if your pet is lost.
Microchipping significantly increases the chances of being reunited with your pet — especially in busy urban areas like Burlington.
What pain management options are available for pets at VCA Burlington?
VCA Burlington offers comprehensive pain management for pets, including medications, laser therapy, and supportive care.
We assess pain using behavioral cues and diagnostic tools, then tailor treatment plans using anti-inflammatories, opioids, or non-drug therapies depending on the condition.
Effective pain control improves healing, mobility, and emotional well-being — especially for senior pets or those with arthritis or post-surgical recovery needs.
Pet Vaccinations
How much does it cost to get my pet vaccinated in Burlington, Ontario?
The 5-in-1 DHPP vaccine typically lasts 1 to 3 years, depending on your dog’s age, health, and the vaccine manufacturer’s guidelines.
Puppies receive a series of DHPP shots starting at 6–8 weeks, with boosters every 2–4 weeks until 16 weeks. Adult dogs then receive boosters every 1–3 years.
Staying current with DHPP boosters ensures long-term protection against multiple life-threatening diseases — especially in social or high-risk environments.
Do dogs really need vaccines every year?
Not all vaccines are needed annually, but some — like Bordetella (and other respiratory diseases) and leptospirosis — do require yearly boosters, while others like rabies or distemper may be given every three years.
At VCA Burlington, we tailor vaccination schedules based on your pet’s age, health, and exposure risk. Our veterinarians follow Canadian guidelines to ensure safe, effective protection.
The reasons for mentioning “other respiratory diseases” is that the majority of respiratory tract infections are not from Bordetella any more, they are from other pathogens like canine parainfluenza—many clinics only vaccinate for Bordetella, but we really want a bivalent or trivalent vaccine in our clinics to make protection even wider.
Another important point is the vaccines given parenterally (by injection) use distemper, hepatitis, parvovirus, parainfluenza, and adenovirus which is great, as they protect the rest of the body, but the Bordetella, Parainfluenza and adenovirus given orally via mist or intranasally are the only ones that will protect the airways—this is why some clients worry that they have had two different vaccines; they are not, they are just given in different regions of the body which will protect both.
Customized vaccine plans reduce unnecessary treatments while maintaining immunity — especially important for senior pets or those with chronic conditions.
What is the 5-in-1 vaccine for dogs and how much does it cost?
The 5-in-1 vaccine (DHPP) protects dogs against distemper, hepatitis, parvovirus, parainfluenza, and adenovirus — all highly contagious and potentially fatal diseases.
At VCA Burlington, this vaccine is typically administered in a series during puppyhood and then boosted every 1–3 years. The cost per dose ranges from $45 to $75, depending on your pet’s needs.
This vaccine is considered a core protection and is essential for dogs in both urban and rural areas of Ontario, where exposure risks remain high.
How long do pet vaccines last?
Core vaccines like rabies, distemper, and parvovirus typically last three years, while non-core vaccines such as Bordetella or Lyme may require annual boosters.
VCA Burlington follows vaccine duration guidelines based on manufacturer data and veterinary best practices, adjusting schedules based on your pet’s age, health, and lifestyle.
Staying on schedule with boosters ensures your pet remains protected without over-vaccination — especially important for pets that travel, board, or socialize frequently.
What happens if I don’t vaccinate my dog?
Unvaccinated dogs are at high risk of contracting serious diseases like rabies, parvovirus, and distemper — many of which are fatal or require costly treatment.
In Ontario, rabies vaccination is legally required. Skipping vaccines can also prevent your dog from being accepted at boarding facilities, groomers, public parks or prevent travel to some countries.
Vaccinating your dog protects not only their health but also your family, other pets, and the broader Burlington community from preventable outbreaks.
How many shots does a dog need to be fully vaccinated?
Dogs typically need a series of 3–4 core vaccines as puppies, followed by annual or triennial boosters depending on the vaccine and your pet’s lifestyle.
The core puppy series includes DHPP (distemper, hepatitis, parvovirus, parainfluenza) at 6, 12, and 16 weeks, plus a rabies vaccine. Adult dogs may receive boosters every 1–3 years based on risk and veterinary guidance.
Following the full schedule ensures your dog is protected during their most vulnerable stages and meets legal requirements in Ontario.
When should a pet get vaccinated?
Puppies should begin vaccinations at 6–8 weeks of age, with boosters every 2–4 weeks until 16 weeks, followed by annual wellness visits.
At VCA Burlington, we recommend starting with core vaccines like DHPP and rabies, then adding lifestyle-based vaccines such as Bordetella Bordetella (and other respiratory diseases) or Lyme as needed.
Timely vaccinations help build strong immunity during the critical early months and reduce the risk of preventable diseases in Burlington’s pet community.
How long does a 5-in-1 vaccine last for dogs?
Puppies should begin vaccinations at 6–8 weeks of age, with boosters every 2–4 weeks until 16 weeks, followed by annual wellness visits.
At VCA Burlington, we recommend starting with core vaccines like DHPP and rabies, then adding lifestyle-based vaccines such as Bordetella Bordetella (and other respiratory diseases) or Lyme as needed.
Timely vaccinations help build strong immunity during the critical early months and reduce the risk of preventable diseases in Burlington’s pet community.
Nutrition and Diet
What is the best food for my pet?
The best food for your pet depends on their species, age, breed, activity level, and any existing health conditions.
At VCA Burlington, we offer nutritional consultations to help you choose between dry, wet, raw, or prescription diets — ensuring your pet receives balanced, vet-approved nutrition.
Feeding your pet a diet tailored to their needs supports long-term health, weight management, and disease prevention — especially in growing puppies, seniors, or pets with allergies.
Should I feed my pet a homemade diet?
Homemade diets can be safe if they are carefully balanced and formulated with veterinary guidance.
At VCA Burlington, we recommend consulting with a veterinary nutritionist before switching to a homemade diet to ensure it meets your pet’s specific nutritional needs.
Improperly balanced homemade diets can lead to deficiencies or long-term health issues — especially in growing pets or those with medical conditions.
Preventive Care
Does my pet need vaccines?
Most pets benefit from professional dental cleanings once a year, but frequency depends on age, breed, and oral health.
At VCA Burlington, we assess your pet’s teeth during wellness exams and may recommend cleanings under anesthesia to remove plaque, tartar, and bacteria below the gumline.
Regular dental care prevents tooth loss, pain, and systemic infections — improving your pet’s quality of life and longevity.
What flea and tick medications do you recommend?
The best flea and tick prevention depends on your pet’s species, age, health status, and exposure risk.
At VCA Burlington, we offer a range of vet-recommended topical and oral preventives, including options for pets with sensitivities or those in high-risk environments.
Consistent parasite prevention protects your pet from discomfort and serious diseases like Lyme and ehrlichiosis — especially in Ontario’s tick-prone areas.
How often should my pet have a dental cleaning?
The best flea and tick prevention depends on your pet’s species, age, health status, and exposure risk.
At VCA Burlington, we offer a range of vet-recommended topical and oral preventives, including options for pets with sensitivities or those in high-risk environments.
Consistent parasite prevention protects your pet from discomfort and serious diseases like Lyme and ehrlichiosis — especially in Ontario’s tick-prone areas.
Is heartworm prevention necessary for my pet?
Yes, heartworm prevention is essential — even in Ontario — as mosquitoes can transmit this potentially fatal parasite to both dogs and cats.
At VCA Burlington, we recommend monthly heartworm preventives from spring through fall, or year-round depending on your pet’s lifestyle. We also recommend annual blood testing to ensure early detection and safe treatment.
Preventing heartworm is far safer, easier, and more affordable than treating it. Consistent prevention protects your pet’s heart, lungs, and overall health — especially during Ontario’s mosquito season.
Health & Wellness
What are the signs of a sick pet?
A healthy weight allows you to feel your pet’s ribs without excess fat and see a visible waist when viewed from above.
At VCA Burlington, we use body condition scoring and breed-specific guidelines to assess your pet’s weight and create customized nutrition and exercise plans.
Maintaining a healthy weight improves your pet’s mobility, lifespan, and quality of life — especially in senior pets or those with joint issues.
Is that behavior normal?
Sudden changes in behavior — such as aggression, hiding, excessive vocalization, or house soiling — may indicate stress, pain, or illness.
At VCA Burlington, we assess behavior in the context of your pet’s age, breed, and environment. Some behaviors may be normal developmentally, while others warrant medical or behavioral evaluation.
Understanding your pet’s behavior helps you respond appropriately and ensures their emotional and physical well-being is supported.
What are these lumps and bumps on my pet?
Any new, growing, or changing lump should be examined by a veterinarian — especially if it’s firm, painful, or bleeding.
At VCA Burlington, we perform fine needle aspirates or biopsies to determine whether a lump is benign or requires treatment. Early detection is key in managing skin tumors or infections.
Prompt evaluation of skin abnormalities can lead to early diagnosis of serious conditions like cancer — improving treatment options and outcomes.
What is a healthy weight for my pet?
Any new, growing, or changing lump should be examined by a veterinarian — especially if it’s firm, painful, or bleeding.
At VCA Burlington, we perform fine needle aspirates or biopsies to determine whether a lump is benign or requires treatment. Early detection is key in managing skin tumors or infections.
Prompt evaluation of skin abnormalities can lead to early diagnosis of serious conditions like cancer — improving treatment options and outcomes.
Senior Pet Care
When is a pet considered a senior?
Most pets are considered seniors around age 7 for dogs and 8–10 for cats, though this varies by breed and size.
At VCA Burlington, we assess your pet’s age, breed, and health history to determine when to begin senior wellness protocols, which may include more frequent exams and diagnostic screenings.
Recognizing the senior life stage early allows for proactive care — helping detect arthritis, kidney disease, or cognitive decline before symptoms become severe.
What is the best way to care for a senior pet?
Senior pets benefit from more frequent wellness exams, age-appropriate diets, and adjustments to exercise and home environments.
At VCA Burlington, we recommend biannual checkups, bloodwork, dental care, and joint support for aging pets. We also help manage chronic conditions like arthritis, kidney disease, or cognitive dysfunction.
Tailoring care to your pet’s senior needs improves comfort, extends lifespan, and helps you detect subtle changes before they become serious.
Veterinary Visits and Costs
What questions should I ask when choosing a veterinarian?
Ask about emergency protocols, appointment policies, continuity of care, and the range of services offered.
At VCA Burlington, we welcome questions about our preventive care philosophy, after-hours support, and how we personalize care based on your pet’s age, breed, and lifestyle.
Asking the right questions builds a long-term relationship with your veterinary team — one based on shared values, open communication, and proactive care.
How can I tell if a veterinarian is good?
A good veterinarian listens attentively, explains clearly, and prioritizes preventive care — all while showing empathy toward both pets and their people.
At VCA Burlington, our team is trained in Fear Free techniques, client communication, and collaborative decision-making to ensure every visit is stress-free and informative.
Choosing a vet who values partnership and education empowers you to make confident, informed decisions about your pet’s health at every stage of life.
What services should a veterinary clinic offer?
A comprehensive veterinary clinic should offer preventive care, diagnostics, surgery, dental services, and emergency support — all under one roof.
VCA Burlington provides spays and neuters, vaccinations, allergy relief, radiology, lab testing, pain management, and senior wellness programs — tailored to each pet’s life stage.
Choosing a clinic with integrated services ensures faster diagnoses, better care coordination, and a more personalized experience for both you and your pet.
How do I know if I can trust my vet?
You can trust your vet if they communicate clearly, involve you in decisions, and consistently prioritize your pet’s well-being.
At VCA Burlington, we encourage open dialogue, provide detailed treatment explanations, and offer second opinions when needed — all to support informed, confident care.
A trustworthy vet fosters a collaborative relationship, where you feel empowered, respected, and supported throughout your pet’s health journey.
What qualities make a veterinarian successful?
Successful veterinarians combine technical expertise with empathy, communication skills, and a commitment to lifelong learning.
At VCA Burlington, our team is selected for their compassion, adaptability, and ability to explain complex medical issues in a way that builds trust and clarity.
Veterinarians who lead with empathy and education create stronger bonds with clients — resulting in better outcomes and more confident pet owners.
Do veterinary clinics accept walk-ins or are appointments required?
VCA Burlington primarily operates by appointment to ensure each pet receives dedicated time and attention, but we do accommodate urgent walk-ins when possible.
Our team prioritizes emergencies and time-sensitive cases, and we encourage clients to call ahead so we can prepare appropriately. Same-day appointments may be available depending on capacity.
Understanding appointment policies helps you plan routine care efficiently — and ensures your pet receives timely attention when it matters most.
What are a veterinary clinic’s emergency policies?
VCA Burlington provides emergency care during business hours and refers after-hours cases to trusted 24/7 emergency hospitals in the Burlington area.
We ensure continuity of care by coordinating with emergency partners and following up on your pet’s condition. Our team is trained to triage and stabilize urgent cases promptly.
Knowing your clinic’s emergency protocol in advance gives you peace of mind and ensures your pet receives immediate, expert care when every second counts.
Will my pet see the same veterinarian at each visit?
While we have a team-based approach, VCA Burlington strives to schedule your pet with the same veterinarian whenever possible for consistency and comfort.
Our medical records are fully integrated, so every team member has access to your pet’s history, preferences, and treatment plan — ensuring seamless care even if a different vet is needed.
Continuity builds trust and allows for more personalized care, especially for pets with chronic conditions or anxiety around vet visits.
What questions should I ask a veterinarian during an initial consultation?
Ask about the veterinarian’s experience with your pet’s breed, their approach to preventive care, and how they handle emergencies or chronic conditions.
At VCA Burlington, we welcome questions about our care philosophy, communication style, and how we involve pet owners in treatment decisions.
Asking thoughtful questions early on helps establish a collaborative relationship and ensures your pet’s care aligns with your values and expectations.
What should I ask about a vet’s experience and background?
Ask how long they’ve been practicing, what types of animals they specialize in, and whether they’ve handled cases similar to your pet’s.
At VCA Burlington, our veterinarians bring diverse experience in general practice, diagnostics, and preventive medicine — and we’re happy to share our credentials and areas of focus.
Understanding your vet’s background builds confidence and helps you choose a provider who can support your pet’s health through every life stage.
What should I ask about payment options and treatment costs?
Ask whether the clinic provides written estimates, offers payment plans, or accepts pet insurance — and how billing is handled for emergency care.
VCA Burlington is committed to financial transparency. We provide detailed treatment plans and work with clients to explore insurance and financing options when needed.
Discussing costs upfront helps avoid surprises and ensures you can make informed decisions that balance your pet’s health needs with your budget.
What are the typical costs associated with veterinary care?
Routine veterinary care typically includes wellness exams, vaccinations, parasite prevention, and dental cleanings — with annual costs ranging from $300 to $800, depending on your pet’s needs.
At VCA Burlington, we provide detailed estimates for all services, including diagnostics, surgery, and emergency care. Costs vary based on species, age, and medical complexity.
Understanding the full scope of veterinary costs helps you plan ahead, avoid surprises, and ensure your pet receives timely, uninterrupted care.
What payment options are available for veterinary care?
VCA Burlington accepts major credit cards, debit, and pet insurance. We also work with third-party financing providers for eligible clients. We also offer CareClub wellness plans.
We encourage clients to explore pet insurance for long-term cost management and can provide documentation to support claims. Our locations offer wellness plans or payment arrangements for specific services.
Understanding your payment options helps you make confident, timely decisions about your pet’s care — especially in emergencies or when managing chronic conditions.
Medication and Treatment
How do I give my pet medication?
The best method depends on the type of medication and your pet’s temperament — options include hiding pills in food, using pill pockets, or administering liquids with a syringe.
At VCA Burlington, our team demonstrates proper techniques for giving oral, topical, or injectable medications and can provide flavor-enhanced options or compounding when needed.
Administering medication correctly ensures treatment success and reduces stress for both you and your pet — especially during long-term therapies or post-surgical recovery.
What is pre-anesthetic blood work, and why is it important?
Pre-anesthetic blood work checks your pet’s organ function and overall health to ensure they can safely undergo anesthesia.
At VCA Burlington, we recommend blood tests before any procedure requiring sedation — especially in senior pets — to screen for hidden conditions like kidney or liver disease.
This proactive step reduces the risk of complications and allows us to tailor anesthesia protocols for safer, more personalized care.
Pet Anxiety & Behavior
How do you deal with pet anxiety?
Pet anxiety can be managed through a combination of behavior modification, environmental changes, and — when needed — medication.
At VCA Burlington, we use Fear Free techniques during visits and may recommend calming supplements, pheromone diffusers, desensitization training, or prescription anxiolytics depending on the severity of your pet’s anxiety.
Addressing anxiety early improves your pet’s quality of life and strengthens the human-animal bond — especially in rescue pets, seniors, or those with past trauma.
General Questions
What is a microchip, and should my pet have one?
Yes, microchipping is a safe, permanent form of identification that significantly increases the chances of recovering a lost pet.
At VCA Burlington, we implant a small chip under your pet’s skin that stores a unique ID number. This number is linked to your contact information in a national database accessible by shelters and clinics.
Microchipping provides peace of mind and is especially valuable in emergencies, travel, or if your pet escapes — offering a reliable backup to collars and tags.
Can I bring my pet’s medical records to another clinic?
Yes, you can request a copy of your pet’s medical records at any time, and we can also receive records from other clinics to ensure seamless care.
At VCA Burlington, we securely share records upon request, including vaccination history, lab results, imaging, and treatment notes — all to support continuity and informed decision-making.
Transferring records ensures your pet’s new care team has a complete medical history, reducing the risk of duplicated tests or missed diagnoses.
Free First Exam
What is the VCA Free First Exam offer for new clients?
VCA Burlington offers a Free First Exam for new clients, giving pet owners an opportunity to meet our team and receive a wellness evaluation at no cost.
This offer covers the cost of the physical exam only and is available by appointment for first-time visits. Any additional services, diagnostics, or treatments are billed separately.
The Free First Exam helps you establish care with a trusted veterinary team and ensures your pet starts off on the right paw — with no upfront exam fee.
Who is eligible for the Free First Exam at VCA Burlington?
The Free First Exam is available to new clients who have never visited a VCA hospital before.
It applies to one pet per household and must be scheduled in advance. Proof of prior veterinary care is not required, but the offer cannot be combined with other promotions.
This offer is designed to make it easier for new pet owners — or those new to the area — to access trusted veterinary care without financial hesitation.
What should I expect during my Free First Exam at VCA Burlington?
During your Free First Exam, a VCA veterinarian will perform a full physical exam, review your pet’s history, and discuss preventive care recommendations.
We’ll check your pet’s weight, teeth, skin, ears, and vital signs. You’re welcome to bring any previous medical records or questions about diet, behavior, or vaccinations.
This visit is a great opportunity to establish a care plan, ask questions, and build a relationship with your veterinary team — all without an exam fee.
Can I use the Free First Exam for a sick or injured pet?
The Free First Exam is intended for wellness visits and general health assessments — it does not cover emergency or illness-related consultations.
At VCA Burlington, if your pet is sick or injured, we’ll still provide compassionate care, but diagnostics, treatments, and urgent evaluations are billed separately from the promotional offer.
Understanding the scope of the Free First Exam helps you plan appropriately and ensures your pet receives the right level of care without delay.
How do I book the Free First Exam as a new client?
To book your Free First Exam, simply call VCA Burlington or request an appointment online and mention that you’re a new client using the offer.
The offer is valid for one pet per household and must be scheduled in advance. Be sure to bring any previous medical records or adoption paperwork if available.
Booking ahead ensures we can reserve time for a thorough introduction and wellness evaluation — setting the stage for a long-term care relationship.
What’s included in the Free First Exam — and what’s not?
The Free First Exam covers the cost of the physical exam only — any diagnostics, treatments, or medications are billed separately.
At VCA Burlington, we’ll examine your pet’s eyes, ears, teeth, skin, heart, and overall condition. If vaccines, lab work, or medications are recommended, we’ll provide a clear estimate before proceeding.
Knowing what’s included helps you make informed decisions and ensures your pet receives the care they need without unexpected costs.
CareClub
What is VCA CareClub and how does it work?
VCA CareClub is a personalized wellness plan that covers your pet’s routine preventive care through affordable monthly payments.
At VCA Burlington, CareClub includes services like annual exams, vaccines, parasite prevention, dental cleanings, and unlimited exams — all bundled into a single plan tailored to your pet’s age and health needs.
CareClub helps you stay ahead of health issues, avoid large one-time bills, and build a consistent relationship with your veterinary team.
What’s included in a VCA CareClub wellness plan?
CareClub plans typically include annual wellness exams, core vaccinations, diagnostic testing, dental cleanings, and unlimited office visits.
At VCA Burlington, each plan is customized by life stage — puppy/kitten, adult, or senior — and may include additional services like nutritional counseling or chronic condition monitoring.
Bundling preventive care into a wellness plan ensures your pet receives consistent attention, which leads to earlier detection of issues and better long-term outcomes.
How much does CareClub cost and is it worth it?
CareClub is designed to make preventive care more affordable by spreading costs over 12 months — with pricing based on your pet’s age and health needs.
At VCA Burlington, clients often find that CareClub reduces out-of-pocket surprises and encourages more consistent care, which can prevent costly emergencies down the line.
Investing in a wellness plan supports your pet’s health and your peace of mind — especially when paired with pet insurance for unexpected events.
Can I cancel my VCA CareClub plan at any time?
CareClub is a 12-month wellness plan agreement, but you can cancel early by paying for services already used or the remaining balance — whichever is less.
At VCA Burlington, we’re transparent about cancellation terms. If you’ve used more services than you’ve paid for, you may owe the difference. If not, you can cancel with minimal fees.
Understanding the cancellation policy helps you make an informed commitment and ensures you’re prepared if your pet’s needs or your circumstances change.
Can I enroll multiple pets in CareClub?
Yes, each pet can be enrolled in their own CareClub plan — tailored to their age, species, and health needs.
At VCA Burlington, we help families manage multiple plans under one account, making it easier to track appointments, payments, and preventive care for all your pets.
Having each pet on a personalized plan ensures they receive the right care at the right time — while giving you predictable monthly costs and centralized management.
What’s included in the Free First Exam — and what’s not?
The Free First Exam covers the cost of the physical exam only — any diagnostics, treatments, or medications are billed separately.
At VCA Burlington, we’ll examine your pet’s eyes, ears, teeth, skin, heart, and overall condition. If vaccines, lab work, or medications are recommended, we’ll provide a clear estimate before proceeding.
Knowing what’s included helps you make informed decisions and ensures your pet receives the care they need without unexpected costs.
Spay & Neuter
What’s the difference between spaying and neutering, and why does it matter for my pet’s long-term health?
Spaying is the surgical removal of a female animal’s reproductive organs, while neutering refers to the same procedure for males.
These procedures prevent unwanted litters and reduce the risk of serious health issues like uterine infections, breast cancer, and testicular cancer.
At VCA Canada, we recommend discussing the ideal timing with your veterinarian to align with your pet’s breed, age, and lifestyle for optimal health outcomes.
Do male pets get spayed or neutered, and what are the benefits?
Male pets are neutered, not spayed. Neutering involves removing the testicles to prevent reproduction.
Neutering reduces the risk of testicular cancer and can help curb behaviors like roaming, aggression, and marking.
VCA Canada encourages early consultation to determine the best timing for neutering based on your pet’s development and lifestyle.
How much does it cost to spay or neuter a cat in Canada?
In Canada, spaying a female cat typically ranges from $143.50 to $205, while neutering a male cat ranges from $115.50 to $165.
Prices vary based on location, clinic, and whether subsidies are available through humane societies or community programs.
VCA Canada offers transparent pricing and can help guide you to local resources or financial assistance if needed.
Why is it called “spayed” and “neutered”?
“Spay” comes from the Latin spatha, meaning sword, referencing the surgical procedure. “Neuter” means “neither,” indicating removal of reproductive capability.
These terms are standard in veterinary medicine and help distinguish between procedures for male and female pets.
Understanding these terms helps pet owners make informed decisions and communicate effectively with their veterinary team.
When should a female dog be spayed?
Most veterinarians recommend spaying female dogs before their first heat, typically around 6 months of age for a small breed dog. Slightly larger dogs could wait until 8 months of age, and a very large breed of dog could wait to be spayed until 10-12 months of age.
Early spaying significantly reduces the risk of mammary tumors and uterine infections.
VCA Canada tailors spay timing based on breed, size, and health history to ensure the best outcome for your dog.
Is it better to spay a female pet or neuter a male?
Both spaying and neutering offer significant health benefits, but the risks they reduce differ by sex.
Spaying a female pet before her first heat can prevent uterine infections and reduce the risk of breast cancer, which is fatal in up to 90% of cats and 50% of dogs. Neutering males eliminates the risk of testicular cancer and reduces prostate issues.
VCA Canada recommends discussing your pet’s age, breed, and lifestyle with your veterinarian to determine the most beneficial timing and procedure.
What happens if I don’t spay my dog?
Not spaying your dog increases the risk of serious health conditions and behavioral challenges.
Intact females are more likely to develop mammary tumors and life-threatening uterine infections like pyometra. They may also experience heat cycles that lead to roaming, vocalizing, and attracting unwanted attention from male dogs.
VCA Canada encourages early spaying to prevent these risks and support a longer, healthier life for your dog.
What is the best age to neuter a dog?
The best age to neuter a dog depends on breed, size, and individual health factors.
Small to medium breeds are often neutered around 6 months, while large breeds may benefit from waiting until 12–18 months to allow for full growth and joint development.
VCA Canada tailors neutering timelines to each dog’s unique needs, ensuring the safest and most effective outcome.
Do dogs know they’ve been neutered?
Dogs do not have emotional awareness of being neutered and do not mourn the loss of reproductive organs.
Research shows that dogs do not associate neutering with identity or loss. Most behavioral changes are hormonal and often positive, such as reduced aggression or roaming.
VCA Canada supports pet owners with compassionate care and guidance before and after surgery to ensure a smooth transition.
What is the best age to neuter a cat?
Most veterinarians recommend neutering cats just before 6 months of age, just before they reach sexual maturity.
Early neutering helps prevent spraying, roaming, and aggression, and reduces the risk of reproductive cancers.
VCA Canada encourages early consultation to determine the best timing based on your cat’s health and environment.
How much does it cost to care for a cat each month in Canada?
Monthly cat care in Canada typically ranges from $60 to $100, depending on lifestyle and health needs.
This includes food, litter, routine veterinary care, and occasional grooming or enrichment items. Unexpected medical costs can increase this amount.
VCA Canada encourages pet parents to plan for both routine and emergency care, and to explore pet insurance or wellness plans for peace of mind.
How long does a cat stay in heat?
A cat’s heat cycle typically lasts 4 to 7 days but can extend up to 21 days in some cases.
During this time, cats may vocalize, become more affectionate, and attempt to escape to find a mate. These behaviors can be stressful for both the cat and the household.
VCA Canada recommends spaying before the first heat cycle to prevent unwanted litters and reduce behavioral stress.
Can a neutered cat still mate?
Neutered male cats cannot reproduce, but some mating behaviors may persist temporarily due to residual hormones.
It can take several weeks for hormone levels to drop after surgery. During this time, mounting or interest in females may still occur.
VCA Canada advises monitoring behavior post-surgery and ensuring all pets in the household are sterilized to prevent accidental litters.
Do spayed cats still go into heat?
Spayed cats should not go into heat. If they do, it may indicate residual ovarian tissue or another medical issue.
Rarely, a condition called ovarian remnant syndrome can cause heat-like symptoms in spayed cats.
VCA Canada recommends a veterinary exam if your spayed cat shows signs of heat to rule out complications and ensure complete sterilization.
Is it possible to spay a cat without surgery?
Non-surgical sterilization methods are being researched, but surgery remains the most reliable and widely available option.
Injectable sterilants and immunocontraceptives are in development but are not yet approved for routine use in cats in Canada.
VCA Canada supports advancements in veterinary science and will offer alternative options when they are proven safe and effective.
