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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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Birmingham Dogs Home makes urgent appeal

News Story 1
 Birmingham Dogs Home has issued an urgent winter appeal as it faces more challenges over the Christmas period.

The rescue centre has seen a dramatic increase in dogs coming into its care, and is currently caring for over 200 dogs. With rising costs and dropping temperatures, the charity is calling for urgent support.

It costs the charity £6,000 per day to continue its work.

Fi Harrison, head of fundraising and communications, said: "It's heart-breaking for our team to see the conditions some dogs arrive in. We really are their last chance and hope of survival."

More information about the appeal can be found here. 

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News Shorts
Avian flu confirmed at premises in Cornwall

A case of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 has been detected in commercial poultry at a premises near Rosudgeon, Cornwall.

All poultry on the infected site will be humanely culled, and a 3km protection zone and 10km surveillance zone have been put in place. Poultry and other captive birds in the 3km protection zone must be housed.

The case is the second avian flu case confirmed in commercial poultry this month. The H5N5 strain was detected in a premises near Hornsea, East Riding of Yorkshire, in early November. Before then, the disease had not been confirmed in captive birds in England since February.

The UK chief veterinary officer has urged bird keepers to remain alert and practise robust biosecurity.

A map of the disease control zones can be found here.