Pet Pain Research by Local Vet Practice
LOCAL VET Julia Fearns, of Fearns Veterinary Practice in Dunkeld, is to play a key role in helping define the future health of cats.
She will be one of only seven specially selected UK investigators taking part in the international study to research a possible treatment for cats with chronic pain. The same medicine, meloxicam, is currently used for this purpose in dogs.Whilst chronic pain in dogs is widely recognised and managed, there is no equivalent licensed treatment for cats. Julia is one of a team of 21 investigators from the UK , France and Germany to be involved in the study to monitor its longer-term efficacy in cats.
Cats can experience chronic pain for a number of reasons including arthritis, joint malfunction, back pain etc. Unlike dogs, though, they often do not outwardly display major signs that they are suffering, and so the pain is not recognised. |
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The key signs and symptoms that cat owners may notice are that their cat is less willing to jump, or has become less mobile or 'frisky' around the house. They may also be less likely to want to go outside the house and explore, or pay less attention to their immaculate grooming. Only in extreme cases will the cat become lame but it may react if the owner touches the affected area.
Julia's team is seeking up to eight local cats with the signs described. If the cat is accepted for the trial, the owner will be offered free treatment, including x-rays and blood tests. Their owners must be willing to return to the vet each week for the four-week duration of the study. Owners who think their pets may qualify for the study should call the Cat Study helpline on 01344 746959 or contact their vet to discuss referral.
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