Source: AVMA News 

Managing chronic pain in cats should involve both pharmacological and environmental approaches. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) play a crucial role in this multimodal strategy, but their use requires careful consideration. To guide veterinarians, the International Society of Feline Medicine (ISFM) and the American Association of Feline Practitioners (AAFP) published the “2024 ISFM/AAFP Consensus Guidelines on the Long-Term Use of NSAIDs in Cats.”

These guidelines aim to optimize pain management while minimizing adverse effects by providing decision-making tools for prescribing NSAIDs. Key points include understanding NSAIDs’ mechanisms, assessing patient suitability, and monitoring treatment efficacy. The guidelines emphasize the importance of including caregivers in the treatment plan and offer resources for them on home modifications and increasing water intake for cats. The guidelines build on knowledge since the 2010 edition, incorporating recent studies on NSAID use in cats with comorbidities to enhance safety and efficacy, ensuring the best care for feline patients.

Read the full story HERE: https://www.avma.org/news/isfm-aafp-update-guidelines-long-term-nsaid-use-cats