Matan wrote about how an animals basic need is to reproduce after food and
water.  This is basic in all animals, the biological need to reproduce, it
is how a species insures its continuation.
 
The animal doesn't actually have any "feelings" about it, just biological/
hormone regulated drives- much different than desire or want.  Once they
are fixed they will lose this drive, and not miss a thing.  Of course, now
they can focus on playing, and getting into things, and such.
 
Of course, many believe in not spaying or neutering, or at least waiting a
few years.  For those who don't they need to be responsible and make sure
there are no unwanted litters, and the animals are healthy.  If the animals
health is depending on it, like uterine infection that wouldn't clear, or
anemia from prolonged heat, or testicular tumor then it should be done,
regardless of beliefs, and there is no need for the animal to die early
just so it could breed.
 
Patty
[Posted in FML issue 3453]