Your Pet’s Best Friend: Clearing Up Myths About Sterilization (Nasbandi)

 

As loving pet parents, we want the best for our dogs and cats. But when it comes to spaying (for females) or neutering (for males)—often called sterilization or nasbandi—there are many rumors and fears that stop people.

Let’s look at the facts and leave the myths behind. This simple procedure is actually one of the kindest things you can do for your pet’s health and happiness!

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Myth vs. Reality: Clearing the Air

 

 

Myth 1: “My pet will become lazy and gain weight.”

 

• Fact: The surgery itself is not a magic weight-gain pill. What happens is their body metabolism might slow down a little bit. As long as you give them the right amount of food and their regular sair (walks) and playtime, they will stay fit and active. No excuses for skipping that morning walk!

 

Myth 2: “My female pet must have at least one litter first.”

 

• Fact: Zero health benefit in this! Letting a female dog or cat go through a heat cycle or have a litter increases the risk. In fact, getting them spayed before their first heat cycle drastically lowers the risk of breast cancer and other serious infections later in life. It is safer, not riskier.

 

Myth 3: “It will change my pet’s personality and make them dull.”

 

• Fact: Your pet’s loving nature, playful quirks, and unique personality will not disappear. What often does change are the unwanted, stressful behaviours—like fighting/aggression, roaming away from home to find a mate, or the male dog spraying/marking territory everywhere. Most owners are very happy with these changes!

 

Myth 4: “My pet will feel sad or ‘deprived’ that they can’t have babies.”

 

• Fact: Pets do not think about having babies the way humans do. They don’t have human regrets or desires for offspring. What truly matters to them is your love, a safe home, and quality time with you. They won’t feel like they’re missing out on anything.

 

Myth 5: “The surgery is very painful and risky.”

 

• Fact: These are routine, daily surgeries for veterinarians. Pets are fully under anaesthesia, and with modern pain medication, the recovery is usually very smooth and quick. Think of it as a necessary, short hospital stay with a very positive outcome.

 

Myth 6: “Neutering a male dog makes him less protective of the house.”

 

• Fact: Their instinct to guard the family and home is rooted in loyalty, not hormones. Neutering does not affect their protective nature or reduce their bravery. They remain your faithful chowkidaar (guard).

 

Myth 7: “It is too expensive.”

 

• Fact: While there is a one-time cost, consider the alternative: Preventing serious health issues (which can cost lakhs later) and avoiding unexpected litters (caring for puppies/kittens is very expensive!) saves you far more money and stress in the long run. Many NGOs and clinics offer discounted rates.

 

Myth 8: “Only female pets need to be fixed.”

 

• Fact: Both benefit equally! Neutering males helps prevent testicular cancer, significantly reduces the risk of prostate issues, and curbs annoying behaviours like spraying urine and running away.

 

Myth 9: “My indoor cat/dog doesn’t need it.”

 

• Fact: Even the most watchful owner can have an accident! A door is left ajar, or a cat slips out a window. Sterilisation ensures there are no accidental litters that add to the stray problem, and your pet still gets all the health benefits.

 

Myth 10: “I want my children to see the ‘miracle of birth’.”

 

• Fact: While the idea is sweet, raising a litter responsibly is a massive burden, and it adds to the huge issue of homeless animals. There are countless videos and books that can teach children about the life cycle without creating more puppies or kittens who desperately need homes.