Estudo retrospectivo de afecções urinárias em ruminantes atendidos no hospital universitário veterinário da Universidade Federal da Paraíba

Abstract

Urinary diseases in ruminants have a significant impact on productivity and animal welfare, particularly due to their multifactorial etiology and the diagnostic challenges involved. This study aimed to perform a retrospective analysis of urinary disorders diagnosed in ruminants attended at the Veterinary Teaching Hospital of UFPB between January 2013 and dezember 2024, describing disease frequency, epidemiological characteristics, diagnostic approaches, and therapeutic outcomes. Clinical records were reviewed including variables such as species, breed, sex, age, management system, feeding practices, water availability, season, final diagnosis, treatment applied, and clinical outcome. Results revealed a higher prevalence in males, especially young adults, with urethral obstruction and rupture, urolithiasis, and pyelonephritis being the most frequent conditions. Seasonality showed a higher occurrence during the dry period, suggesting an association with water restriction and dietary changes. Laboratory parameters such as urine specific gravity, pH, and the presence of crystals and casts provided complementary diagnostic information, often preceding changes in serum urea and creatinine. Treatment analysis indicated high mortality rates for clinical management alone, while surgical approaches, particularly urethrostomy, showed higher success rates, although influenced by early diagnosis and postoperative care. In conclusion, urinary diseases in ruminants present an epidemiological pattern directly related to management and feeding practices, emphasizing the importance of preventive measures, early diagnosis, and adequate therapeutic choice. This study contributes to the understanding of the regional case distribution and highlights the need for further research to deepen knowledge on the influence of environmental and nutritional factors in the occurrence of these diseases.