Beyond the Purr: Understanding Feline OA and Improving Cat Comfort
1.0 CE Credit Hour / Veterinarians & Veterinary Technicians
Overview:
Feline osteoarthritis (OA) pain is a common and often undiagnosed condition in cats. Despite approximately 40% of cats being clinically affected, the signs of feline OA pain are often hidden, making diagnosis challenging. Cats, by their nature, are experts at concealing pain, which further complicates the identification and treatment of this condition. However, advancements in veterinary medicine have led to the development of a new treatment to effectively control feline OA pain. This talk aims to shed light on the prevalence and challenges associated with feline OA pain, explore why cats tend to hide their pain, and discuss the significance of early diagnosis and intervention. The presentation will also highlight the availability of a novel treatment option that can significantly improve the quality of life for cats suffering from OA pain. By increasing awareness and understanding of feline OA pain and its management, veterinarians and cat owners can work together to ensure that affected cats receive timely and appropriate care, leading to better pain management and enhanced overall well-being for these beloved companions
Learning Objectives:
- Understand the differences in the manifestation of pain in cats than other species
- Recognize the importance of multimodal pain techniques in the management of chronic pain
- Understand the balance between implementing a recommended treatment plan and preserving the relationship between cats and their people
- Implement a comprehensive investigation and treatment plan for chronic OA pain in cats
- Implement strategies for successful integration of anti-NGF MAB into pain management plan
Elizabeth Colleran, DVM, MS
Elizabeth Colleran, DVM, DABVP (Feline medicine), was an author, keynote and veterinary conference speaker, consultant, and feline specialist board certified by the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners. She successfully created and managed 2 feline medicine veterinary practices in Portland, Oregon, which was the first feline-only practice in Portland, and at the Chico Hospital for Cats. Colleran chaired the Cat Friendly Practice for the American Association of Feline Practitioners (AAFP). She also served on the AAFP board for several years, including as president in 2011 and treasurer from 2007-2009, the American Veterinary Medical Association welfare committee, and as a volunteer for other veterinary organizations. She received her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from Tufts University School of Veterinary Medicine and Master of Science in animals and public policy with the thesis, “Politics, Economics and Biology of the California Mountain Lion,” graduating with honors. Colleran lectured around the world, including a 4-day course in internal medicine topics in Chengdu, China. She taught a day long series of lectures in feline medicine, behavior, and enrichment in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, in 2019. She loved teaching and believed it is one important way to improve health care and quality of life for felines. Colleran was a published author and frequent contributor to several peer-reviewed publications, as well as a media spokesperson on several feline topics for communications campaigns in addition to proudly mentoring many aspiring feline practitioners. Dr Elizabeth Colleran passed away in September 2023.
Moderator: Adam Christman, DVM, MBA
Adam Christman, DVM, MBA, is the chief veterinary officer for dvm360®—an MJH Life Sciences Company™—who oversees content strategy and development and is the brand voice and personality for dvm360®’s multimedia channels. As a charismatic leader, he brings wit, humor, and authenticity to animal health care as the host of dvm360 Live!™ a new web-based talk show, The Vet Blast Podcast, continuing education webinars, and live media broadcasts.
Christman has also been in private practice and shelter medicine for 18 years and is currently a member and Treasurer of the New Jersey Veterinary Medical Association. He received his DVM degree from Iowa State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine and his MBA from Aspen University.
Christman is a national thought leader, speaker and author on practice management, social media, and rehabilitation, and co-authored, Honey, Have You Squeezed the Dachshund? A Pet Owner’s Guide for Owners Who Are Terrified of IVDD—a book on dogs with disabilities. He has been featured in multiple publications and appeared on various multimedia shows throughout the country sharing his expertise and passion on all things veterinary medicine.
As an avid social media influencer for animal health care, he has over 800K followers on TikTok and 53K followers on Instagram. He loves to engage with fellow pet parents and veterinary professionals across social media. Christman is an advocate of Pride VMC and Pawsibilities. He is also the proud dog dad to 4 dachshunds and believes no one should be deprived of the incredible human-animal bond.
This program has been approved for 1.0 hour of continuing education credit in jurisdictions that recognize RACE approval.
This activity is funded by Zoetis.
