Veterinarians around the globe now have access to the latest Consensus Guidelines created by a panel of world-leading feline experts on the long-term use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) in cats. The most widely used analgesic in veterinary medicine, the ‘2024 ISFM and AAFP consensus guidelines on the long-term use of NSAIDs in cats’ from the International Society of Feline Medicine (ISFM) and the American Association of Feline Practitioners (AAFP) supports practitioners with decision-making around prescribing NSAIDs in situations of chronic pain to minimise adverse effects and optimise pain management for their feline patients.

An extensive and practical guide to all aspects of the long-term use of NSAIDs in feline medicine, the Guidelines provide valuable resources for veterinarians and cover essential information including:

  • Mechanism of action of NSAIDs
  • Indications for their long-term use in cats
  • Assessing patient suitability and screening prior to prescription of NSAIDs
  • Considerations for NSAID use in the presence of comorbidities
  • Monitoring treatment efficacy
  • Avoidance and management of adverse effects
  • Considerations for anaesthesia and surgery in cats receiving long-term NSAID therapy
  • Cat friendly techniques to reduce chronic pain in the clinic and at home

The Guidelines also focus on providing cat friendly advice and tips for supporting caregivers to help improve compliance and therapeutic outcomes, while positively impacting the cat-caregiver bond. Three new guides for cat caregivers have been created by ISFM on supporting topics: ‘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’, as well as a ‘Treating Chronic Pain with NSAIDs’ Client Brochure from the AAFP to accompany the Guidelines.

Commenting on the evolution of the Guidelines, Dr Sam Taylor, Head of Veterinary Specialists at ISFM and contributing author, said: ‘The first NSAID Guidelines were published in 2010. Since then, multiple studies have examined the use of NSAIDs in cats, particularly those with comorbidities. These Guidelines have examined this evidence and aim to provide practitioners with practical information on using NSAIDs for chronic pain management, along with tips and advice on working with caregivers to provide the best care for their cat.’

‘We are thrilled to announce the release of these new Guidelines addressing long-term use of NSAIDs in cats,’ added Heather O’Steen, AAFP CEO. ‘With a focus on safety, efficacy, and responsible medication management, these Guidelines aim to enhance the quality of life for cats while minimizing 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’ is now available free to read for veterinary professionals worldwide in the Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery (JFMS) at: https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/epdf/10.1177/1098612X241241951