Italian pet owners urged to adopt sterilization and heat‑care measures

Veterinary experts in Italy advise pet owners to sterilize dogs and cats to protect long‑term health. In females, early ovario‑hysterectomy (ideally before the fifth heat) virtually eliminates the risk of pyometra and can cut mammary‑tumour incidence by up to 80 %. In males, castration removes the chance of testicular cancer, lowers the likelihood of benign prostate enlargement and prevents rare but fatal testicular torsion. Timing for large‑breed dogs may be delayed until skeletal growth is complete (12‑18 months).

Separate guidance focuses on protecting pets from heat stress. Owners should schedule walks in the early morning or late evening, provide abundant fresh water, keep animals in shaded or cooled areas, and use refrigerating mats only with supervision. Early signs of heatstroke include rapid panting, weakness, discoloured mucous membranes in dogs or open‑mouth breathing and lethargy in cats. First‑aid steps involve moving the animal to a cool place, applying tepid (not ice‑cold) water to the torso, offering small sips of water and seeking veterinary care promptly.