The appropriate age for neutering a pet can vary depending on the species, breed, and size of the animal. In general, most veterinarians recommend neutering dogs and cats between the ages of 6 and 9 months, although some may recommend earlier or later, depending on the individual animal. For dogs, the timing of neutering may also depend on the breed. Large breeds may benefit from delaying neutering until they are closer to 1 year old to allow for proper growth and development. However, early neutering is generally recommended for smaller breeds to help prevent certain health problems. For cats, neutering is often recommended at a younger age, between 8 and 16 weeks, before they reach sexual maturity and start exhibiting unwanted behaviors.