Frequently Asked Questions

Biomedical waste refers to materials generated during veterinary care. These materials may pose a risk to health or the environment if not handled properly.

Examples include:

• needles or sharp objects used during treatments
• bandages or gloves contaminated from treating an animal
• materials containing blood
• certain biological tissues from medical procedures
• materials and/or treatments involving microbiological cultures or live vaccines

These types of waste must be handled and disposed of according to strict regulations established by the Government of Quebec.

Proper biomedical waste management helps to:

• protect the health of our team
• ensure the safety of clients and animals
• prevent injuries or infections
• avoid environmental contamination

It is an essential step in providing safe and responsible veterinary care.

Our team follows strict procedures recommended in the veterinary field:

• biomedical waste is identified as soon as it is generated
• sharps (such as needles) are placed in secure, rigid containers
• contaminated materials are disposed of in specially designed bags
• containers are clearly labeled and safely stored before collection

Yes. Our team is trained in the safe management of biomedical waste, including associated risks and proper procedures. This helps protect everyone: staff, clients, and animals.

No. Biomedical waste is always handled, stored, and disposed of according to very strict protocols. Clients do not have access to it, and all necessary measures are taken to ensure a safe clinic environment.

Improper management can lead to:

• infectious risks for workers and the public
• injuries or cuts to staff
• environmental contamination (water, soil, air)
• legal penalties in cases of non-compliance

Biomedical Waste Regulation – Government of Quebec

Official regulation text (Légis Québec)

This means we transfer your pet’s prescription to another provider, such as:

• a human pharmacy
• another veterinary facility
• an online pharmacy

Before transferring the prescription, it is important to verify two things:

With your pharmacist:

• Make sure the exact medication is available (same molecule and dosage—mg or mg/mL)
• Confirm that the pharmacist is comfortable preparing the medication for your pet and can answer your questions

With your insurance provider:

• If your pet is insured, confirm that coverage applies to medications obtained outside a veterinary clinic

Once the prescription is sent elsewhere:

• we will no longer be able to fill, renew, or modify it at our clinic
• any future adjustments or renewals may require a new veterinary consultation, depending on how much time has passed since the original prescription

Not always, which is why it is important to ensure it is exactly the same medication. Human medications:

• may have different side effects in animals
• may contain additives that are toxic to certain species

Recommendation: Speak with the pharmacist to understand the risks and ensure the medication is appropriate for your pet.

• • For questions about your pet’s health: contact the prescribing veterinarian
  • For questions about the medication itself: contact the pharmacy or clinic that prepared it

• • Verify that your prescription is valid where you plan to fill it
  • Prescriptions from Quebec are not always valid outside Canada or in certain provinces
  • Make sure the pharmacy is legitimate by consulting the Order of Pharmacists or the Veterinary Association of the relevant province

• • No guarantee of product authenticity (counterfeits may look identical to real medications)
  • Unknown origin and storage conditions, which may affect effectiveness (e.g., heat during transport affecting refrigerated medications)
  • No support or guarantees from veterinarians or suppliers (no promotions, loyalty programs, or assistance)
  • If not listed, there is no way to verify the product’s expiration date (especially for long-term prescriptions)

• • Known origin and proper storage conditions
  • Veterinary supervision during prescription preparation to reduce errors and monitor drug interactions
  • Support and guarantees from veterinarians or suppliers (including assistance and financial support)
  • Clear guidance on administration and safe use
  • Promotions offered by suppliers (loyalty programs or discounts)

When requesting a prescription to be filled externally, prescription fees are normal. These fees reflect the work involved in selecting the medication, calculating the dosage, and the veterinarian’s medical responsibility.

Prescription fees always apply, whether the medication is filled externally or within the veterinary clinic.

It is also important to know that each medication (molecule and concentration) includes preparation costs, whether obtained from a human pharmacy or an online pharmacy. When you purchase medication directly from our clinic, these preparation fees are already included in the total price.

Vet et Nous provides comprehensive veterinary care, including wellness exams, diagnostic services, surgery, and preventive medicine.

Our services vary from one hospital to another but generally include:

• Health examinations
  • Health concerns or minor emergencies such as:
    • Ear infections
    • Skin problems
    • Diarrhea
    • Vomiting
    • Urinary problems
    • Lameness
    • Broken nails
    • Poisoning/toxicity
• General surgeries
  • Enterotomy
  • Entérectomy (intestinal resection)
  • Pyometra surgery
  • Soft palate correction
  • Nostril correction
  • Pubic symphysiodesis
  • Preventive gastropexy
  • Cystotomy
  • Cesarean section
  • Minor orthopedic surgery
  • Wound repair
  • Mass and tumor removal
  • Minor ophthalmic surgery
• Spay and neuter surgeries
  • Ovariectomies
  • Ovariohysterectomies
  • Vasectomies
  • Neuters
• Vaccination and deworming
• Dental care
• Radiology
• Laboratory testing
• Pain management
• Senior pet wellness programs

Choosing a hospital that offers integrated services ensures continuity of care, faster diagnoses, and a more personalized approach to your pet’s long-term health, all provided by experienced veterinary teams.

Yes, our emergency and referral centers offer allergy testing (intradermal testing) and treatment plans for pets suffering from itching, skin rashes, or chronic irritation. Our dermatology specialists are here to help relieve your pet’s skin issues because we understand how difficult and frustrating it can be to see your companion suffer from persistent itching.

We use diagnostic tools such as skin scrapings, blood tests, and elimination diets to identify the causes of itching, followed by targeted therapies such as medicated shampoos, anti-itch medications, and immunotherapy.

Early intervention can help prevent secondary infections and improve your pet’s quality of life—especially during peak seasonal allergy periods in Quebec.

A consultation at Vet et Nous includes a complete physical examination, weight assessment, and dental evaluation. Preventive screenings may also be recommended based on your pet’s age and breed. We may recommend blood tests, parasite screenings, or vaccinations during the visit to help ensure your pet remains healthy and protected year-round. Regular physical examinations help detect a variety of conditions early—from arthritis to organ disorders—allowing for earlier treatment and better long-term outcomes.

Yes, Vet et Nous offers microchipping services to provide permanent identification for your pet. A microchip is a small, safe device implanted under the skin that contains your contact information and can be scanned by shelters or veterinary clinics if your pet becomes lost. Microchipping significantly increases the chances of being reunited with your pet.

Vet et Nous offers comprehensive pain management for pets, including medications, laser therapy, and supportive care.

We assess pain using behavioral indicators and diagnostic tools, then develop personalized treatment plans that may include anti-inflammatory medications, monoclonal antibody therapies, complementary therapies, or non-pharmaceutical treatments depending on your pet’s condition.

Effective pain control promotes healing, improves mobility, and supports emotional well-being—especially for senior pets, those suffering from osteoarthritis, or those recovering from surgery.

The 4-in-1 vaccine (DAPP) generally provides protection for 1 to 3 years, depending on your dog’s age, health status, and manufacturer recommendations. Puppies receive a series of DAPP vaccinations beginning at 6 to 8 weeks of age, with boosters every 2 to 4 weeks until 16 weeks of age. Adult dogs then receive boosters every 1 to 3 years. Keeping DAPP vaccinations up to date ensures long-term protection against several serious diseases—particularly in social settings or high-risk environments.

Not all vaccines need to be administered annually. Some, such as Bordetella (and other respiratory disease vaccines), Lyme disease, and leptospirosis vaccines, require yearly boosters, while others, such as rabies and distemper, may only be required every three years.

At Vet et Nous, we tailor vaccination schedules based on your pet’s age, health status, and exposure risk. Our veterinarians follow Canadian guidelines to ensure safe and effective protection.

It is important to mention “other respiratory diseases,” as most respiratory infections are no longer caused solely by Bordetella but also by other pathogens such as canine parainfluenza virus. While some clinics vaccinate only against Bordetella, using a bivalent or trivalent vaccine broadens protection.

Another important point is that injectable (parenteral) vaccines protect against distemper, hepatitis, parvovirus, parainfluenza, and adenovirus, providing systemic immunity. However, oral (mucosal) or intranasal vaccines against Bordetella, parainfluenza, and adenovirus are the only ones that directly protect the respiratory tract. This is why some clients believe their pet received two different vaccines—when in fact these are complementary protections administered through different routes to ensure comprehensive coverage.

Personalized vaccination plans help avoid unnecessary treatments while maintaining appropriate immunity—particularly important for young animals and those with chronic health conditions.

The 4-in-1 vaccine (DAPP) protects dogs against distemper, hepatitis, parvovirus, and parainfluenza—highly contagious and potentially life-threatening diseases. At Vet et Nous, this vaccine is typically administered as a puppy series and then boosted every 1 to 3 years. The cost per dose generally ranges from $35 to $55, depending on your pet’s needs. This vaccine is considered a core vaccine and remains essential in both urban and rural environments across Quebec, where exposure risks remain significant.

Core vaccines such as rabies, distemper, and parvovirus generally provide protection for three years, while non-core vaccines such as Bordetella or Lyme disease often require annual boosters. Vet et Nous follows manufacturers’ duration-of-immunity recommendations and recognized veterinary guidelines, adjusting schedules according to your pet’s age, health status, and lifestyle. Following booster schedules ensures adequate protection without over-vaccination—especially important for pets that travel, board, or socialize frequently.

Unvaccinated dogs face a higher risk of contracting serious diseases such as rabies, parvovirus, and distemper—many of which can be fatal or require costly treatment. The MAPAQ recommends rabies vaccination for all companion animals. Lack of vaccination may prevent access to boarding facilities, grooming salons, public parks, or complicate international travel. Vaccinating your dog protects not only your pet’s health but also your family, other animals, and the broader community from preventable outbreaks.

Dogs generally require a series of 3 to 4 core vaccines as puppies, followed by annual or triennial boosters depending on the vaccine and lifestyle.

The core series includes DAPP (distemper, hepatitis, parvovirus, and parainfluenza) at 8, 12, and 16 weeks of age, as well as a rabies vaccine. Adult dogs then receive boosters every 1 to 3 years depending on risk factors and veterinary recommendations.

Following the complete protocol ensures optimal protection during the most vulnerable stages of life.

Puppies should begin vaccinations at 6 to 8 weeks of age, with boosters every 2 to 4 weeks until 16 weeks of age, followed by annual wellness visits.

At Vet et Nous, we recommend starting with core vaccines such as DAPP and rabies, then adding lifestyle-based vaccines such as Bordetella (and other respiratory diseases) or Lyme disease when appropriate.

Vaccinating at the proper time helps develop strong immunity during critical early months and reduces the risk of preventable diseases within the pet community.

The 4-in-1 vaccine (DAPP) generally provides protection for 1 to 3 years, depending on the dog’s age, health status, and manufacturer recommendations.

Following the initial puppy series, boosters are administered every 1 to 3 years to maintain adequate and long-lasting immunity.

The best diet for your pet depends on its species, age, breed, activity level, and any existing medical conditions.

At Vet et Nous, we offer nutritional consultations to help you choose between dry, wet, or therapeutic prescription diets while ensuring balanced, veterinarian-approved nutrition.

Providing a diet tailored to your pet’s specific needs supports long-term health, helps maintain an ideal body weight, and aids in disease prevention—especially for growing puppies and kittens, senior pets, and animals with chronic conditions such as kidney disease, allergies, or urinary issues.

Homemade diets can be safe when they are carefully balanced and formulated under veterinary guidance. At Vet et Nous, we recommend consulting a veterinarian or veterinary nutritionist before starting a homemade diet to ensure it meets your pet’s specific nutritional requirements. An improperly balanced homemade diet can lead to nutritional deficiencies and long-term health problems—particularly in growing animals or pets with medical conditions.

Most pets benefit from a professional dental cleaning under anesthesia once a year, although frequency may vary depending on age, breed, and oral health.

At Vet et Nous, we evaluate your pet’s teeth during wellness exams and may recommend a complete dental assessment under anesthesia, including dental radiographs to identify disease below the gumline and a thorough cleaning to remove plaque, tartar, and bacteria.

Regular dental care helps prevent tooth loss, pain, and systemic infections, improving both quality of life and longevity.

The best flea and tick prevention depends on your pet’s species, age, health status, and exposure risk.

At Vet et Nous, we offer a range of veterinarian-recommended topical and injectable products, including options for sensitive pets and those living in high-risk environments.

Consistent parasite prevention protects your pet from discomfort and serious diseases such as Lyme disease and ehrlichiosis—especially in areas of Quebec where ticks are present. Prevention significantly reduces the risk of infection but does not eliminate it entirely.

Yes. Heartworm prevention is important—even in Quebec—as mosquitoes can transmit this potentially fatal parasite to both dogs and cats.

At Vet et Nous, we recommend monthly heartworm preventive treatments 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 when necessary.

Preventing heartworm disease is far simpler, safer, and more affordable than treating it. Consistent prevention protects your pet’s heart, lungs, and overall health—particularly during Quebec’s mosquito season.

Signs that your pet may be ill can include loss of appetite, lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, coughing, weight changes, increased thirst, breathing difficulties, or sudden behavioral changes. At Vet et Nous, we assess your pet’s overall health through a comprehensive physical examination and, when necessary, diagnostic testing to quickly identify the cause of symptoms. Early veterinary intervention often allows health concerns to be detected before they worsen, improving the chances of successful treatment and recovery.

Sudden behavioral changes—such as aggression, withdrawal, excessive vocalization, or inappropriate elimination—can indicate stress, pain, or illness.

At Vet et Nous, we evaluate behavior based on your pet’s age, breed, and environment. Some behaviors may be normal for a particular developmental stage, while others may require medical or behavioral assessment.

Understanding your pet’s behavior helps you respond appropriately and support both their emotional and physical well-being.

Any new lump, or any lump that changes in size, shape, or appearance, should be examined by a veterinarian—especially if it is firm, painful, or bleeding. At Vet et Nous, we perform fine-needle aspiration cytology or biopsies to determine whether a mass is benign or requires treatment. Early detection is critical when managing skin tumors and infections. Prompt evaluation of skin abnormalities can lead to earlier diagnosis of serious conditions such as cancer, improving treatment options and prognosis.

For a pet at an ideal weight, the ribs should be easily felt without excess fat covering them, and a visible waistline should be present behind the rib cage. At Vet et Nous, we use body condition scoring and breed-specific references to assess your pet’s weight and develop personalized nutrition and exercise plans. Maintaining a healthy weight improves mobility, lifespan, and overall quality of life—particularly in senior pets and those with joint issues.

Depending on breed and size, dogs may be considered seniors between 5 and 10 years of age, while cats generally become seniors between 8 and 10 years of age.

At Vet et Nous, we assess your pet’s age, breed, and medical history to determine the appropriate time to begin a senior wellness program, which may include more frequent examinations and diagnostic screenings.

Recognizing the senior stage early allows for a proactive approach to detecting arthritis, kidney disease, and cognitive decline before symptoms become severe.

Senior pets benefit from more frequent wellness exams, age-appropriate nutrition, and adjustments to their exercise routines and home environment.

At Vet et Nous, we recommend biannual wellness assessments, blood testing, dental care, and joint support for aging pets. We also help manage chronic conditions such as arthritis, kidney disease, and cognitive dysfunction.

Adapting care to the specific needs of senior pets improves comfort, extends lifespan, and helps identify subtle health changes before they become serious.

Ask about emergency protocols, appointment policies, continuity of care, and the range of services available. At Vet et Nous, we welcome questions about our preventive care philosophy, after-hours support, and how we personalize care according to your pet’s age, breed, and lifestyle. Asking the right questions helps establish a long-term, trusting relationship with your veterinary team based on shared values, open communication, and proactive care.

A good veterinarian listens carefully, communicates clearly, and emphasizes prevention while demonstrating compassion toward both pets and their owners.

At Vet et Nous, our teams strive to use low-stress, minimal-restraint handling whenever possible, while focusing on client communication and collaborative decision-making so that every visit is both reassuring and informative.

Choosing a veterinarian who values partnership and education helps you make informed and confident decisions throughout your pet’s life.

A comprehensive veterinary clinic should provide preventive and medical care, diagnostic services, surgery, dental care, and emergency support—all under one roof.

Vet et Nous offers services including spay/neuter procedures, vaccinations, allergy treatments, radiology, laboratory testing, pain management, and wellness programs for senior pets—tailored to every stage of life.

Choosing a clinic with integrated services allows for faster diagnoses, better coordination of care, and a more personalized experience for you and your pet.

You can trust your veterinarian if they communicate clearly, involve you in decisions, and consistently prioritize your pet’s well-being. At Vet et Nous, we encourage open dialogue, provide detailed explanations of treatments, and offer second opinions when needed to support informed and reassuring care. A trustworthy veterinarian creates a collaborative relationship where you feel heard, respected, and supported throughout your pet’s healthcare journey.

Outstanding veterinarians combine technical expertise, empathy, strong communication skills, and a commitment to continuing education. At Vet et Nous, our team is selected for its compassion, adaptability, and ability to explain complex medical issues in a clear and accessible way. Veterinarians who prioritize empathy and education build stronger relationships with clients, leading to better outcomes and more confident pet owners.

Our facilities operate primarily by appointment to ensure each pet receives the time and attention they deserve, but we accommodate walk-in emergencies whenever possible.

Our team prioritizes urgent and time-sensitive cases, and we encourage clients to call ahead whenever possible so we can prepare appropriately. Same-day appointments may be available depending on capacity.

Understanding appointment policies helps you plan routine care efficiently and receive prompt attention when needed.

We also have three emergency centers in the Greater Montreal area that are open 24/7 to receive emergency cases.

Our hospitals and clinics provide emergency care during regular business hours and are supported by three 24/7 emergency centers located in the Greater Montreal area to ensure continuous care at any time of day or night.

Our facilities work closely together to ensure seamless continuity of care and comprehensive follow-up of your pet’s medical records. Our teams are trained to triage, stabilize, and rapidly direct urgent cases to the most appropriate resource.

Understanding our emergency protocols in advance provides peace of mind and ensures your pet receives prompt, coordinated, and expert care when every minute matters.

Although we practice a team-based approach, Vet et Nous strives to schedule appointments with the same veterinarian whenever possible to provide consistency and comfort.

Our medical records are fully integrated, allowing every team member access to your pet’s history, preferences, and treatment plan—ensuring seamless care even when another veterinarian is involved.

Continuity fosters trust and allows for more personalized care, particularly for pets with chronic illnesses or anxiety related to veterinary visits.

Ask about the veterinarian’s experience with your pet’s breed, their approach to preventive care, and how they manage emergencies or chronic illnesses. At Vet et Nous, we welcome questions about our care philosophy, communication style, and how we involve pet owners in treatment decisions. Asking thoughtful questions from the beginning encourages a collaborative relationship and ensures that care aligns with your values and expectations.

Ask about how long they have been practicing, the types of animals they treat, and whether they have managed cases similar to your pet’s. At Vet et Nous, our veterinarians have diverse experience in general practice, diagnostics, and preventive care, and we are happy to share our qualifications and areas of expertise. Understanding your veterinarian’s background helps build confidence and ensures your pet is cared for by a professional capable of supporting them throughout every stage of life.

Each clinic provides written estimates and accepts pet insurance. It can also be helpful to ask how billing is handled in emergency situations. Vet et Nous is committed to financial transparency. We provide detailed treatment plans and work with clients to explore insurance and financing options when needed. Discussing costs in advance helps avoid surprises and allows you to make informed decisions based on your budget and your pet’s needs.

Routine veterinary care generally includes annual examinations, vaccinations, parasite prevention, and dental cleanings, with annual costs averaging approximately:

• $3,000 for an adult cat
• $3,500 for a small-breed dog
• $4,800 for a large-breed dog

Costs vary depending on your pet’s individual needs.

At Vet et Nous, we provide detailed estimates for all services, including diagnostics, surgery, and emergency care. Costs vary based on species, age, and medical complexity.

Understanding overall veterinary costs helps you plan appropriately, avoid unexpected expenses, and ensure timely ongoing care for your pet.

Vet et Nous accepts major credit cards, debit cards, and pet insurance plans. We also work with third-party financing providers for eligible clients.

We encourage pet owners to explore pet insurance to better manage long-term healthcare costs and can provide the documentation required for claims. Some locations may also offer wellness plans or payment arrangements for specific services.

Understanding your payment options allows you to make confident and timely decisions regarding your pet’s care—particularly during emergencies or when managing chronic illnesses.

The best method depends on the type of medication and your pet’s temperament. Tablets can often be hidden in food or pill treats, while liquid medications may be administered using an oral syringe. At Vet et Nous, our team can demonstrate proper techniques for administering oral, topical, or injectable medications. We can also recommend flavored formulations or compounded medications when appropriate. Administering medication correctly helps ensure treatment effectiveness while reducing stress for both you and your pet—especially during long-term therapies or post-surgical recovery.

Pre-anesthetic bloodwork evaluates your pet’s organ function and overall health to ensure they can safely undergo anesthesia. At Vet et Nous, we recommend blood testing before any procedure requiring general anesthesia or deep sedation—particularly for senior pets—to identify underlying conditions such as kidney or liver disease. This preventive measure reduces the risk of complications and allows us to tailor anesthetic protocols for safer, more personalized care.

Anxiety in pets can be managed through a combination of behavioral therapy, environmental modifications, and, when necessary, medication.

At Vet et Nous, we prioritize low-stress and minimal-restraint handling techniques during visits and may recommend calming supplements, pheromone diffusers, desensitization training, or prescription anti-anxiety medications depending on the severity of the anxiety.

Addressing anxiety early improves your pet’s quality of life and strengthens the human-animal bond—particularly for adopted pets, senior animals, or those that have experienced trauma.

Yes. A microchip is a permanent and secure form of identification that significantly increases the chances of recovering a lost pet.

At Vet et Nous, we implant a small microchip under your pet’s skin containing a unique identification number. This number is linked to your contact information in a national database accessible to shelters and veterinary clinics.

Microchipping provides peace of mind and is especially valuable during emergencies, travel, or if your pet escapes—offering additional protection alongside collars and identification tags.

Yes. You may request a copy of your pet’s medical records at any time, and we can also receive records from other clinics to ensure continuity of care. At Vet et Nous, we securely share records upon request, including vaccination history, laboratory results, diagnostic imaging, and treatment notes to support informed medical decisions. Transferring records ensures that your new veterinary team has access to your pet’s complete medical history, reducing the risk of duplicate testing or missed diagnoses.

Spaying (ovariohysterectomy or ovariectomy) refers to the surgical removal of a female animal’s reproductive organs, while neutering refers to the procedure performed on males. These procedures prevent unwanted litters and reduce the risk of serious health issues such as uterine infections, mammary tumors, prostate disease, and testicular cancer. At Vet et Nous, we recommend discussing the ideal timing with your veterinarian to tailor the procedure to your pet’s breed, age, and lifestyle for the best possible outcomes.

Male animals are neutered, not spayed (the term “spay” is generally reserved for females). Neutering involves the removal of the testicles to prevent reproduction. Neutering reduces the risk of testicular cancer and prostate disease and may decrease behaviors such as roaming, aggression, and urine marking. Vet et Nous encourages an early consultation to determine the ideal timing based on your pet’s development and lifestyle.

In Quebec, spaying a female cat generally costs between $250 and $350, while neutering a male cat typically ranges between $185 and $230. Prices vary depending on location, clinic, and the availability of subsidies through shelters or community programs. Vet et Nous offers transparent pricing and can help direct you to local resources or financial assistance programs when available.

Most veterinarians recommend:

• Small breeds: around 6 months of age
• Medium breeds: between 8 and 12 months
• Large and giant breeds: between 12 and 24 months

Spaying before the first heat cycle significantly reduces the risk of mammary tumors and uterine infections. However, waiting until growth is complete may offer benefits related to joint health and the incidence of certain cancers.

Vet et Nous customizes surgical timing according to your dog’s breed, size, and medical history.

Spaying a female before her first heat cycle helps prevent uterine infections and significantly reduces the risk of mammary cancer (fatal in approximately 90% of affected cats and 50% of affected dogs). Neutering eliminates the risk of testicular cancer and reduces prostate-related issues. Vet et Nous recommends evaluating your pet’s age, breed, and lifestyle with your veterinarian to determine the best approach.

Not spaying increases the risk of serious health conditions and behavioral challenges. Intact females are more likely to develop mammary tumors and life-threatening uterine infections such as pyometra. They will also experience heat cycles that may result in roaming, vocalization, and attracting male dogs. Vet et Nous recommends spaying to promote a longer, healthier life.

The ideal age depends on breed, size, and individual health considerations. Small- and medium-breed dogs are often neutered around 6 months of age, while larger breeds may benefit from waiting until 12 to 18 months to allow for complete musculoskeletal development. Vet et Nous personalizes recommendations based on each dog’s unique needs.

Dogs do not have an emotional awareness of being neutered and do not “miss” their reproductive organs. Any changes observed after surgery are hormonal in nature and are often positive, including reduced aggression or roaming behavior. Vet et Nous supports pet owners with compassionate care before and after surgery.

Most veterinarians recommend neutering cats shortly before 6 months of age, prior to sexual maturity. Early neutering helps prevent urine marking, roaming, and aggression while reducing the risk of reproductive cancers. Vet et Nous recommends an early consultation based on your cat’s health and environment.

Monthly expenses for a cat typically range from $60 to $100, depending on lifestyle and healthcare needs. This generally includes food, litter, routine veterinary care, and basic supplies. Unexpected medical expenses can increase these costs. Vet et Nous encourages planning for both preventive and emergency care and exploring pet insurance or wellness plans.

A heat cycle typically lasts 4 to 7 days, although it can extend up to 21 days in some cases. During this period, a cat may vocalize more frequently, become more affectionate, and attempt to escape to find a mate. Vet et Nous recommends spaying before sexual maturity, around 6 months of age, to prevent unwanted litters and behavioral stress.

A neutered male cat cannot reproduce, although some mating behaviors may persist temporarily due to residual hormones. It may take several weeks for hormone levels to decrease completely following surgery. Vet et Nous recommends monitoring behavior after the procedure and ensuring that all pets in the household are spayed or neutered.

A properly spayed female cat should not experience heat cycles. If signs of heat occur, it may indicate residual ovarian tissue or another medical issue. A rare condition known as ovarian remnant syndrome can cause symptoms similar to heat cycles. Blood tests can help diagnose this condition. Vet et Nous recommends a veterinary examination if these symptoms appear after spaying.

Non-surgical sterilization methods are currently being studied, but surgery remains the most reliable and widely available option. Injectable sterilants and immunocontraceptive products are under development but are not yet approved for routine use in Canada. Vet et Nous supports scientific advancements and will offer alternative options when they are proven safe and effective.