Prevalence of pseudopregnancy in bitch attending a veterinary teaching hospital in Spain.

Abstract

Pseudopregnancy (PSG) is one of the most common syndromes diagnosed after oestrous cycle in female dogs. We found a diagnosed prevalence of PSG at 30.81% among reproductive pathologies in bitch. Concentrated oestrous occurrences in spring and autumn influence PSG distribution. PSG onset is marked by behavioural changes, followed by physical signs (mammary enlargement and galactorrhea). The last oestrous-PSG onset interval ranged from 1 to 6 months (median = 3.0 months) and the median for the interval spaying-PSG onset was 7.0 days. Half of the cases were discharged after 16 days, surpassing recommended treatment periods for cabergoline (4-6 days) and metergoline (8 days). Although Elizabethan collars were recommended, actual compliance stood at two-thirds of cases. Our study highlights the possible underestimation of the PSG prevalence, probably due to lack of identification of clinical signs by owners. Further research is warranted to better understand possible risk factors, preventive measures or therapeutic options.