Acromegaly (hypersomatotropism) is an endocrine disorder characterized by progestin-induced hypersecretion of growth hormone (GH) by mammary hyperplasia, with resultant overgrowth of the soft tissue, bone, and viscera. In humans and cats, acromegaly is commonly caused by pituitary adenomas producing GH. Rare cases of pituitary adenomas resulting in acromegaly have been reported in dogs, but acromegaly is usually caused by GH production at hyperplastic mammary glands or mammary adenocarcinoma.
These pro-early neuter studies were not carried out long enough to evaluate the risk of cancer. In my experience, dogs neutered under 6 months develop less obesity and donât establish some of the âmaleâ behaviors that neutering is meant to treat. They are also less likely to jump a fence, fight, or get hit by a car.
When to Spay or Neuter Your Pet. 1  For dogs: While the traditional age for neutering is six to nine months, puppies as young as eight weeks old can be neutered as long as theyâre healthy. 2  For cats: It is generally considered safe for kittens as young as eight weeks old to be spayed or neutered. In animal shelters, surgery is often performed at this time so that kittens can be sterilized prior to adoption.