[Coat changes in castrated bitches - a review of the literature]

Abstract

Object: Literature on veterinary medicine was searched for information on coat changes in castrated bitches. The data obtained was evaluated according to criteria of evidence-based veterinary medicine, to gain an objective basis for the evaluation of this undesired spaying-induced effect.

Material and methods: The literature search was carried out via the search function of PubMed and of the "Deutsche Nationalbibliothek" (DNB). Furthermore, German journals were surveyed for relevant papers.

Results: A total of 16 publications concerning the subject were found: ten expert opinions, three case series and three cohort studies.

Conclusion: Publications on "coat changes in castrated bitches" are rare. The contemporary literature is predominantly comprised of expert opinions and is therefore of little evidentiary value.

Clinical relevance: Because coat changes following spaying in bitches are often described, dog owners should be informed about these possible secondary effects after spaying. Analysis of frequency and promotive factors with high evidentiary value are still lacking. Consequently, it is difficult or impossible to predict the individual risk of a dog developing coat changes.