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Guidelines published on long-term use of NSAIDs in cats
The first version of the consensus guidelines was published in 2010.
ISFM and AAFP release new version of their consensus guidelines.

An updated consensus guidelines for the long-term use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) in cats with chronic pain has been published.

Created by the International Society of Feline Medicine (ISFM) and the American Association of Feline Practitioners (AAFP), the guidelines are designed to support veterinary surgeons with making decisions about prescribing NSAIDs long-term to optimise pain management and minimise adverse effects.

The guidelines include information on assessing patient suitability, considerations to take into account when there are comorbidities present, and how to monitor treatment efficacy.

Alongside the guidelines, the ISFM has created three new guides for owners whose cats have been prescribed NSAIDs: ‘Treating chronic (long-lasting) pain with NSAIDs’, ‘Changes to the home environment for cats with muscle/joint pain or mobility problems’ and ‘Encouraging your cat to drink’. AAFP has also produced a client brochure: ‘Treating chronic pain with NSAIDs’, which goes alongside the guidelines.

ISFM and AAFP published the first version of their NSAID guidelines in 2010. The latest version has been informed by multiple studies into the use of NSAIDs in cats, many with a focus on cats with comorbidities, which have been published since then.

Heather O’Steen, AAFP chief executive, said: “We are thrilled to announce the release of these new guidelines addressing long-term use of NSAIDs in cats.

“With a focus on safety, efficacy, and responsible medication management, these guidelines aim to enhance the quality of life for cats while minimising potential risks. We believe that these guidelines will serve as a vital resource in ensuring the optimal care and wellbeing of cats receiving long-term NSAID therapy.”

The ‘2024 ISFM and AAFP consensus guidelines on the long-term use of NSAIDs in cats’ has been published in the Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery.

Image © Shutterstock

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Reporting service for dead wild birds updated

News Story 1
 The Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) has updated its online reporting service for dead wild birds.

The new version allows those reporting a dead bird to drop a pin on a map when reporting the location. It also includes a wider range of wild bird species groups to select from when describing the bird.

The online service, which helps APHA to monitor the spread of diseases such as avian influenza, can be accessed here. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
NI chief vet urges bluetongue vigilance

Northern Ireland's chief veterinary officer (CVO) has urged farmers to be vigilant for signs of bluetongue, after the Animal and Plant Health Agency warned there was a very high probability of further cases in Great Britain.

There have been 126 confirmed cases of bluetongue virus serotype 3 in England since November 2023, with no cases reported in Northern Ireland. The movement of live ruminants from Great Britain to Northern Ireland is currently suspended.

According to the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA), the virus is most likely to enter Northern Ireland through infected animals or germplasm (semen or ova) being imported.

Brian Dooher, Northern Ireland's CVO, said: "Surveillance for this disease within Northern Ireland has been increased to assist with detection at the earliest opportunity which will facilitate more effective control measures."

Farmers should report any suspicions of the disease to their private veterinary practitioner, the DAERA Helpline on 0300 200 7840 or their local DAERA Direct Veterinary Office.