Introduction to endoscopy in the cat: where to start? What to buy?

For many years, endoscopy and minimally invasive surgery have been considered 'standard' in human healthcare. With the expansion of the used medical equipment market, and the falling cost of new equipment, veterinary practitioners are now starting to appreciate first-hand the benefits of performing endoscopic procedures: for example, vastly improved visualisation of the surgical site, reduced tissue trauma, minimal postoperative pain and faster recovery times, especially in feline patients. In addition, clients almost always choose a less invasive procedure if the capabilities are present, and will often consent to these procedures sooner than they would to conventional surgery.

This article aims to guide the general feline practitioner towards a basic understanding of endoscopic and ancillary equipment, and in the direction of appropriate training required to perform routine endoscopic procedures.

The authors draw on information provided in a combination of published texts, articles, reviews and their own clinical experience to provide a practical information guide for the clinician interested in feline endoscopy.