Spay
(verb)
- To remove the ovaries and uterus of (a female animal) so that it cannot reproduce.
- To neuter a female animal.
Origin:
From middle english spayen, from old french espeier, from latin expāri, from ex- + pārire ("to bear, bring forth").
Examples:
- The vet recommended that we spay our female cat before she has another litter.
- Many animal shelters spay stray cats and dogs before they are adopted.
- She decided to spay her dog to prevent unwanted puppies.
- It is recommended to spay your pet to prevent health issues that can arise from being in heat.
- Spaying can help control the population of stray animals.