עברית
Halachot and Customs
Is It Permissible to Neuter Dogs and Cats?
Question
Greetings, I am a veterinarian. I have encountered clients who do not wish to spay or neuter their pets, claiming that it is against halacha. Spaying and neutering have significant benefits for the animals, with many advantages outweighing the disadvantages, including preventing suffering in animals. I would like to know if halacha permits it and/or under what circumstances one may spay or neuter. Thank you.
Answer
Greetings,
It is prohibited to neuter any type of animal (Shulchan Aruch Even HaEzer 5:11), and it is also forbidden to ask a non-Jew to do so on one’s behalf (ibid. 5:14).
However, indirect neutering is permitted for female animals - therefore, it is allowed to administer medication that permanently affects their reproductive capabilities. For male animals, the prohibition includes indirect neutering as well - only medication that temporarily affects their reproductive capabilities is permitted.
Sources: See Chavot Yair (ibid. 6), Beit Shmuel (S"K 14), and what is written on this in Responsa Ma'areh HaBazak part 6 (siman 577).
However, indirect neutering is permitted for female animals - therefore, it is allowed to administer medication that permanently affects their reproductive capabilities. For male animals, the prohibition includes indirect neutering as well - only medication that temporarily affects their reproductive capabilities is permitted.
Sources: See Chavot Yair (ibid. 6), Beit Shmuel (S"K 14), and what is written on this in Responsa Ma'areh HaBazak part 6 (siman 577).
Best regards,
Hillel Meirs
