Your data on MRCVSonline
The nature of the services provided by Vision Media means that we might obtain certain information about you.
Please read our Data Protection and Privacy Policy for details.

In addition, (with your consent) some parts of our website may store a 'cookie' in your browser for the purposes of
functionality or performance monitoring.
Click here to manage your settings.
EmailIphone Application    Posted: 7th March 2022
If you would like to forward this story on to a friend, simply fill in the form below and click send.
Your friend's email:
Your email:
Your name:
 
 
Send Cancel

Feline hypertension cases reaching "crisis point"
"The sooner we can identify those that need help, the better a chance we have of extending their quality and quantity of life” - Suzanne Page, CEVA Animal Health.
Vets urged to review their caseload of senior cats.

The number of senior cats in the UK going undiagnosed with feline hypertension is reaching “crisis point”, a vet from CEVA Animal Health has warned.

If left untreated, hypertension can result in target organ damage, with ocular problems developing in at least 80 per cent of cases, said Suzanne Page, a product manager at CEVA.

The warning follows two years of the COVID-19 pandemic, during which many cats may not have been presented to their vet unless it was an emergency. As such, CEVA Animal Health is calling on vets to review their caseload of senior cats to assess whether any may be at risk of retinal haemorrhage or strokes associated with hypertension. 

Suzanne said: “Despite the potential for catastrophic sequelae such as retinopathy and blindness, owners may see very little in the way of warning signs. That means these patients are completely reliant on a veterinary recommendation for blood pressure monitoring.” 

Ideally, all cats over the age of nine should be screened for hypertension regularly. However, in light of the pressures currently facing the profession, CEVA urges vets to prioritise the most at-risk cats - that is, those with predisposing conditions, such as kidney disease and hyperthyroidism. 

Ms Page added: “There is a real danger that many of those cats will be close to crisis point right now, and the sooner we can identify those that need help, the better a chance we have of extending their quality and quantity of life.”
 
CEVA offers a complimentary Feline Hypertension Ambassador CPD course for vets wishing to improve their knowledge of the disease, including the importance of regular screening and blood pressure monitoring techniques. For more information, visit veterinarywebinars.com/ceva

Become a member or log in to add this story to your CPD history

Webinar to explore history of KC breed registers

News Story 1
 A free webinar exploring the development of the Kennel Club's registration system and the evolution of closed breed registers has been announced.

Hosted by Dr Alison Skipper, veterinary and research advisor at the Kennel Club, the webinar will delve into the development of the registry and how the changing landscape of scientific knowledge has shaped breeding practices. It will also look at what this means for the future of pedigree dogs.

The session will culminate with a look at The Kennel Club's ongoing and future engagement in this area, with a chance for attendees to put forward their thoughts and questions for discussion.

This event takes place on Microsoft Teams on Tuesday, 10 June at 7pm. To learn more, visit events.teams.microsoft.com  

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.