World Spay Day: Why It Matters for Our Pets and Our Communities

Every February, animal lovers across the globe mark World Spay Day, a campaign dedicated to promoting the life-saving benefits of spaying and neutering pets.

For those of us who share our homes with cats, dogs, rabbits or other companion animals, this isn’t just a date on the calendar. 

It’s a reminder that responsible pet ownership has a direct impact on animal welfare, local rescue centres and even public health.

Here at That’s Pets, we believe in celebrating the joy animals bring into our lives, and ensuring they live healthy, secure lives in return.

What Is World Spay Day?

World Spay Day began in 1995 in the United States and has since grown into an international awareness movement. Veterinary practices, charities and rescue organisations use the day to highlight:

The importance of preventing unplanned litters

The health benefits of spaying and neutering

The strain overpopulation places on rescue centres

In the UK, organisations such as RSPCA, Cats Protection, and Dogs Trust consistently promote neutering as a cornerstone of responsible pet care.

Why Spaying and Neutering Matter

1. Preventing Overpopulation

Even one unplanned litter can lead to dozens of future animals if offspring go on to reproduce. Sadly, rescue centres across Britain regularly report capacity pressures, particularly during kitten season.

Spaying and neutering reduce the number of unwanted animals entering shelters — which in turn reduces euthanasia rates and abandonment.

2. Health Benefits

For females, spaying can:

Eliminate the risk of uterine infections (pyometra)

Greatly reduce the risk of mammary tumours

Prevent complications during pregnancy

For males, neutering can:

Reduce the risk of testicular cancer

Lower the likelihood of prostate problems

Decrease roaming behaviours (and therefore accidents)

As always, timing and suitability should be discussed with your vet, as breed, age and health history matter.

3. Behavioural Improvements

Neutered pets are often:

Less likely to roam

Less prone to territorial marking

Less inclined towards hormone-driven aggression

While training and environment always play a role, neutering can significantly reduce hormone-related behaviours.

Addressing Common Concerns

“Will my pet gain weight?”

Weight gain is linked more to diet and exercise than the procedure itself. Adjusting food portions and maintaining regular activity usually prevents issues.

“Is it cruel?”

Modern veterinary techniques are safe and routine. Animals are given anaesthesia and pain relief, and most recover quickly, often returning to normal behaviour within days.

“Should I let my pet have one litter first?”

There is no medical requirement for a female to have a litter before being spayed. In fact, earlier spaying can offer greater protective health benefits.

The Wider Impact

Spaying and neutering don’t just benefit individual pets, they support the wider community. Fewer stray animals mean:

Less pressure on local councils

Reduced wildlife disruption

Lower public health risks

Better use of charity resources

In short, one decision at home can create a ripple effect across your area.

Marking World Spay Day

You could mark the day by:

Booking a neutering appointment if your pet is of suitable age

Sharing reliable information on social media

Donating to a local rescue

Volunteering time at an animal charity

Even a simple conversation can encourage responsible decisions.

Our pets rely entirely on us for their wellbeing. World Spay Day is not about judgement, it’s about informed, compassionate choices.

By taking proactive steps, we help ensure that every dog, cat and companion animal has the best possible chance of a healthy, wanted and loved life.

And that’s something worth celebrating.

Charity grant opens to support UK rescues caring for victims of the pet trade

Animal welfare charity Naturewatch Foundation is inviting rescues across the UK to apply for its annual Pet Rescue Grant, which supports animals harmed by the low-welfare and illegal pet trade.

Now in its third year, the grant provides funding for the rescue and rehabilitation of dogs, cats and rabbits who have been exploited for profit. These animals often arrive into rescue with complex physical and behavioural needs, making their care particularly challenging and costly.

One grant of up to £10,000 is available to UK-registered charities and CICs with an income up to £5 million, while a mini-grant of £1,000 is open to unregistered charities and community organisations in the UK.

The funding can be used towards veterinary treatment, behavioural support, specialist equipment or training, or other essential costs directly linked to the rescue and rehabilitation of animals impacted by the low-welfare pet trade.

Natalie Harney, Campaign Manager at Naturewatch Foundation, told That's Pets: “The Pet Rescue Grant is needed now more than ever. We’re hearing from animal rescues that costs are spiralling while animals arrive with increasingly complex welfare issues, and often require extensive veterinary care and behavioural support.

“At the same time, animals continue to be exploited for profit, trapping many dogs, cats and rabbits in a cycle of suffering where they’re treated like commodities. This grant is our small way of helping rescues give those animals the care they desperately need.

"Ultimately, though, we need the public to help end the illicit pet trade by making careful choices if they decide to welcome an animal into their home, either by supporting a reputable rescue through rehoming or acting responsibly if they do consider buying.”

Naturewatch Foundation campaigns to end low-welfare and illegal breeding. Last year, the charity revealed that four in five puppies in the UK come from unknown sources, with fewer than 20% originating from breeders who are subject to regulation and inspection. 

While the charity strongly supports regulation of the puppy trade, it also remains concerned that current rules, and their enforcement, are failing to adequately protect dogs and their puppies.

In recent weeks, Naturewatch Foundation has welcomed the UK government’s commitment to ending puppy farming, but says swift action is needed to make this a reality.

The organisation has also recently supported an open letter to Pets at Home, coordinated by Rescue Not Retail, urging the company’s new CEO to stop selling live animals in stores. The call aims to reduce impulse buying of small animals, including rabbits, rodents, fish and reptiles, whose welfare and care needs are often far more complex than new owners realise.

Expressions of interest for the Pet Rescue Grant open from 24 January to 14 February 2026.

Rescues can find out more at naturewatch.org/petrescuegrant.

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Carrying Crates for a Big-Boy – Your Maine Coon

If you’re the proud parent of a large male Maine Coon (or any robust, and mischievous, tuxedo cat with Maine Coon lineage), picking the right carrier crate for travel, vet visits or safe transport is really important. 

With your cat already 14 months old and in that in-between “still growing” phase, here’s a detailed guide to help you get it right.

Why size & spec matter for a Maine Coon

Maine Coons are significantly larger than average domestic cats: males can weigh up to 8–12 kg (or more) in some cases.

A crate that’s too small will make your cat feel trapped, stressed, and may even become unsafe (less manoeuvrability, more chance of discomfort).

According to Cats Protection: the right carrier should allow a cat to stand up, lie down and turn around comfortably. Cats Protection

“Big enough for the cat to stand up and lie down comfortably.” Cats Protection

Also, the durability and material of the carrier become even more relevant.

What to look for in a suitable crate

Here are the features you should prioritise for your large, chew-inclined Maine Coon:

1. Size & internal space

Look for a carrier that has some extra room beyond your cat’s standing length and width, this gives them space to shift position without feeling squeezed.

For example: a carrier listed as “large” or “extra large” is preferable to a standard.

Make sure both height and length are sufficient: while front-to-back movement counts, height gives comfort for standing or settling.

2. Material & durability

Hard plastic or strong metal/mesh designs are preferable over ultra-soft fabric bags: the Cats Protection guide says fabric carriers are not recommended because they may be less secure or less easy to clean. Cats Protection

Avoid materials that are easily damaged or bitten through.

Easy-clean surfaces are a bonus, travelling can lead to accidents or spillages.

3. Ventilation & emergency access

Good airflow on at least two sides is important to avoid overheating or stuffiness in the carrier. 

Top-opening doors or front doors are helpful: top access allows you to place or remove a reluctant cat without forcing them through a narrow door.

4. Secure locking / door mechanism

Make sure the door has a secure latch. For a large, strong cat, flimsy catch-mechanisms may fail.

If transported in a car, look for features that allow the carrier to be secured (e.g., with a seat belt), so it doesn’t slide around.

5. Comfort & familiarity

Place a blanket or towel inside that smells of home; this helps reduce stress.

You might want a non-slip base or a soft mat so your cat doesn’t slide around on transport.

When not travelling, leave the carrier out (open) so it becomes a familiar space rather than only being associated with the vet.

Your cat is large, playful, and likely to explore every opportunity—so a robust, spacious, well-ventilated crate is a wise investment. It’s not just about function; it’s about his comfort, safety and reducing the stress of travel/vet visits.

You can check out suitable cat carrying cases to purchase here https://amzn.to/4qBGOt8