Efeitos anátomo-fisiológicos da castração pré-púbere em felinos (Felis catus) – revisão de literatura

Pre-pubertal castration in felines is a highly effective strategy for managing stray animal populations, thereby benefiting both public health and animal welfare. It helps prevent unwanted pregnancies, minimizes human-stray animal conflicts, and curtails the spread of diseases transmitted through mating. However, this practice has sparked debates among veterinarians and pet owners due to potential adverse effects. Surgical and anesthetic complications, including hypothermia and hypoglycemia, are concerns during pediatric procedures. There is also a possibility of altered development of secondary sexual characteristics, although these changes typically do not impact the animals' overall well-being. Metabolically, neutered cats tend to gain weight, raising the risk of obesity and diabetes mellitus. Skeletal concerns involve delayed bone closure, yet bone density remains largely unaffected. Lower urinary tract issues, like incontinence or obstruction, may also arise, albeit through complex mechanisms. Despite these concerns, the benefits of pre-pubertal castration in managing overpopulation and reproductive diseases outweigh the risks. With vigilant veterinary care and post-operative management, adverse effects can be mitigated, underscoring the importance of this practice in controlling stray cat populations.