Retrospective study based on clinical records of veterinary diseases in Goiás, Central-West region of Brazil.

Abstract

This is the first retrospective study to present epidemiological data regarding diseases by species, breed, and sex recorded in veterinary practices in Anápolis, city of Goiás state, located in Central-West region of Brazil. Data were obtained from medical records dated between 2019 and 2023. The information was gathered and analyzed in an electronic spreadsheet. The diseases were distributed into 16 groups: cardiology; dermatology; infectious diseases; musculoskeletal diseases; endocrinology; respiratory diseases; gastroenterology; hematology and immunology; intoxications and poisonings; nephrology; neonatology; neurology; ophthalmology; oncology; theriogenology; and other causes. All available records were analyzed, and inconclusive or illegible documents were discarded. Multiple counting of ongoing cases was avoided. Dogs were categorized into four age groups: puppies, young, adult and senior. Cats were categorized into kitten, adult, and senior. Of the 850 medical records reviewed, 734 (86.3 %) were for dogs, 102 (12 %) for cats, 9 (1.1 %) for horses, and 5 (0.6 %) for birds. Regarding the sex of the animals, there were more female (479/850, 56.35 %) recorded than males (371/850, 43.64 %). Regarding age, senior dogs (80/734) registered fewer veterinary visits than puppies (170/734), young dogs (249/734), and adult dogs (235/734). The same occurs when evaluating cats by age group. In this study, there was a predominance of infectious disease cases (139/850, 16.35 %) and dermatological problems (139/850, 16.35 %). Other relevant cases were musculoskeletal diseases (96/850, 11.29 %) and theriogenology (95/850, 11.18 %). The main single reason for seeking veterinary services was an ehrlichiosis infection. A good understanding of the epidemiology of the most common regional diseases is essential for timely care and for guiding the planning for prevention and control strategies.