AAFP Press Release: The AAFP and International Society of Feline Medicine Release New Guidelines on the Long-term Use of NSAIDs in Cats.
In a significant advancement for feline healthcare, the American Association of Feline Practitioners (AAFP) and the International Society of Feline Medicine (ISFM) have introduced the 2024 Consensus Guidelines on the Long-term Use of Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) in Cats. This groundbreaking release, emanating from Bridgewater, NJ, on April 10, 2024, offers veterinarians a comprehensive and practical manual on the judicious application of NSAIDs in managing chronic pain in our feline friends.
NSAIDs, the cornerstone of pain management in veterinary medicine, now have a clearer path for their long-term administration in cats, thanks to these guidelines. Developed by a panel of leading feline experts, the guidelines encapsulate an array of essential considerations—ranging from the drugs’ mechanism of action, assessing patient suitability, to managing and avoiding adverse effects. Moreover, they delve into considerations for NSAID use in cats with comorbidities, ensuring comprehensive care for the more vulnerable patients.
A notable aspect of the guidelines is their emphasis on Cat Friendly practices. These practices aim to not only manage pain effectively but also to strengthen the bond between cats and their caregivers. The guidelines are complemented by three new guides for cat caregivers on topics such as treating chronic pain with NSAIDs, making home environment adjustments for cats with mobility issues, and encouraging water intake. The AAFP has also released a Treating Chronic Pain with NSAIDs Client Brochure, a testament to the holistic approach of these guidelines.
Dr. Sam Taylor, Head of Veterinary Specialists at ISFM and a contributing author to the guidelines, reflects on the evolution of these guidelines from their first iteration in 2010. Highlighting the incorporation of evidence from multiple new studies, Dr. Taylor underscores the aim to equip practitioners with the latest, evidence-based practices for managing chronic pain in cats, alongside strategies for effective caregiver collaboration.
Heather O’Steen, CEO of the AAFP, echoes this sentiment, stressing the importance of these guidelines in enhancing the quality of life for cats under long-term NSAID therapy. With safety, efficacy, and responsible medication management at their core, the guidelines represent a vital resource for optimizing feline healthcare while minimizing potential risks.
Veterinary professionals worldwide can access the 2024 ISFM and AAFP Consensus Guidelines on the Long-term Use of NSAIDs in Cats for free, ensuring wide dissemination of this critical information.
As the AAFP celebrates its 50th anniversary in 2024, its commitment to advancing feline medicine remains unwavering. Alongside the ISFM, the AAFP continues to set new standards in the care and wellbeing of cats, embodying a dedication to evidence-based medicine and high-quality care through such invaluable resources.
In an era where the health and wellbeing of our feline companions are paramount, these guidelines herald a new chapter in veterinary medicine, promising enhanced care and strengthened bonds between cats and their caregivers.
