Vet Tales

Author: Natalie Keith

We are veterinarians who are passionate about educating the pet-adoring world. This podcast is like having a chat with your favorite veterinarian over morning coffee. Here you can learn about the ins and outs of veterinary medicine so you can take the best possible care of your pet. We believe that educating pet caretakers is the most important thing we can do. After all, your pets care is our passion!
Be a guest on this podcast

Language: en

Genres: Kids & Family, Pets & Animals

Contact email: Get it

Feed URL: Get it

iTunes ID: Get it

Get all podcast data

Listen Now...

Preventing Mammary Cancer: Why Early Spay Matters
Episode 63
Thursday, 5 February, 2026

In this episode of Vet Tales Dr. Natalie Brackeen and Dr. Josiah Dame discuss mammary cancer in dogs and cats and how timely spay/neuter dramatically reduces risk. They explain the difference between cytology and histopathology, review statistics (dogs: ~50% malignant, cats: ~90% malignant), and cover practical timing recommendations—generally spay by 6–12 months for most dogs, at the age of 6 months for cats, with exceptions for large breeds. The hosts also address male neuter benefits (prostate disease prevention), common owner concerns (anesthetic risk, weight gain, behavior changes), and rare exceptions like persistent puppy vaginitis or specific health cases where timing may vary. Key takeaways: check any firm lumps on the mammary chain promptly, spay/neuter pets if you do not plan to breed, and talk to your veterinarian about the best timing for your pet’s breed and health.