The benefits of desexing cats and dogs
Caring for a surprise litter of puppies or kittens and finding them loving homes takes a considerable amount of time, research and money.
Desexing is an effective way to prevent accidental litters. There are also many health and behavioural benefits for desexed cats and dogs.
- Desexed animals are less likely to get diseases.
- Desexing commonly reduces behavioural problems.
- In females, desexing also prevents mating behaviour and false pregnancy.
- Desexing reduces the desire to roam, which lowers the risk of your pet escaping and getting into accidents or becoming lost.
How can I update my pet's desexed status on the NSW Pet Registry?
Ask your vet to update the desexing date and status directly in the NSW Pet Registry. You can check your pet's details online with a NSW Pet Registry account.
Some vets may give you a desexing certificate or letter declaring a temporary or permanent desexing exemption.
If you are given a certificate or letter, you must take this to your local council for processing. This allows you to delay or avoid extra fees or annual permits for non-desexed pets.
Choosing to not desex your pet
You should always speak to your vet for specific advice on desexing.
If you choose to not desex your pet you must complete a Non-desexed cat and dog fees (PDF, 143 KB) form and submit to council with the relevant fee.
Dog owners must pay an additional fee if they don’t desex their dog before 6 months of age.
Cat owners must pay an annual permit if they don’t desex cats before 4 months of age.
Desexing not recommended for medical reasons
Your vet may recommend delaying desexing temporarily or permanently for medical reasons. To avoid paying non-desexed pet fess, they must do this prior to your pet reaching the recommended desexing age (6 months for dogs, 4 months for cats)
If your vet has provided you with a temporary exemption, you must have your pet desexed by the date stated by the vet to avoid additional fees or annual permits.