Diagnostic value of routine haematological and biochemical testing in clinically healthy ASA I cats undergoing elective ovariohysterectomy and orchiectomy

A substantial proportion of apparently healthy ASA I cats exhibited subclinical laboratory abnormalities. These findings suggest that relying solely on clinical criteria may underestimate anaesthetic risk. Routine pre-anaesthetic laboratory testing, particularly in specific populations such as brachycephalic breeds or cats older than 7 years, may improve perioperative assessment by identifying occult systemic conditions.