NACA Animal Control Officers Practice Test

What is one of the benefits of spaying an animal?

1. Increased heat cycles

2. Less risk of cystitis

3. Reduction of mammary cancer risk

4. More frequent aggression

The correct answer is: Reduction of mammary cancer risk

Spaying an animal presents several health benefits, one of which is the reduction of mammary cancer risk. When a female animal is spayed, especially before her first heat cycle, the likelihood of developing mammary tumors later in life significantly decreases. This is largely due to the hormonal influences of the reproductive cycle, which can stimulate mammary tissue growth. By eliminating the cycles and associated hormone fluctuations through spaying, the risk of hormonal-related cancers such as mammary cancer is reduced. This benefit is essential for responsible pet ownership as it contributes to the overall well-being and longevity of the animal. In addition to lowering the chances of mammary cancer, spaying can prevent other reproductive system diseases, such as pyometra, which is an infection of the uterus, further underscoring the positive health implications of this procedure.