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Cats Protection shares benefits of a pragmatic approach to treatment
Lauren Kirk reminded delegates of the importance of developing a step-by-step approach and altering plans where necessary.

Charity vet gives presentation at BSAVA Congress 2021.

Cats Protection delivered an insightful presentation today at BSAVA Congress 2021 on how 'shelter medicine' can be used in a private practice setting to develop timely, cost-effective treatment plans.

The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in many veterinary practices and animal shelters having to limit their scope of service, and the forecast economic recession will also mean that owners will have less to spend on their pets. So, in many cases, practices will have to consider a more pragmatic approach so that they can continue to treat animals successfully.

Veterinary surgeon Lauren Kirk, who works at Cats Protection's National Cat Adoption Centre in Sussex, shared some insight into how veterinary staff working in shelters approach diagnosis and treatment and how this clinical style can be used by private practices as we begin to ease out of lockdown.

Ms Kirk stressed the importance of considering the bigger picture when taking a pragmatic approach; focusing on addressing the most critical, treatable conditions that will have the largest impact on the animal's welfare and being realistic and flexible about the available resources.

When developing a treatment plan with a shelter medicine mindset, Ms Kirk recommends assessing whether it is cost-effective and gives the shortest time to resolution. As well as not being afraid to alter the plan if the patient is not improving.

The veterinary surgeon spoke about the need to plan ahead, considering whether certain tests or treatments are absolutely necessary and whether they will change the treatment plan at all. She reminded delegates not to be guilty of over-treating and not to be afraid to just observe and wait if a patient seems to be doing well.

Ms Kirk also urged delegates to consider a spectrum of care approach, adding: “This model can help us continue our oath while working within the financial constraints of our clients.”

The full presentation will be available to view on the BSAVA congress platform in the coming days.

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Practices urged to audit neutering data

News Story 1
 RCVS Knowledge has called on vet practices to audit their post-operative neutering outcomes.

It follows the release of the 2024 NASAN benchmarking report, which collates data from neutering procedures performed on dogs, cats and rabbits.

The benchmarking report enables practices in the UK and Ireland to compare their post-operative outcomes to the national average. This includes the rate of patients lost to follow-up, which in 2024 increased to 23 per cent.

Anyone from the practice can submit the data using a free template. The deadline for next report is February 2026.

Visit the RCVS Knowledge website to complete an audit. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.