Update in feline therapeutics: clinical use of 10 emerging therapies

The field of veterinary medicine is constantly evolving. New medications are being introduced into clinical practice, and novel uses for established medications are frequently being discovered as new information comes to light.

Therapeutic options for our feline patients can be restricted based on inadequate clinical evidence, adverse effects and patient compliance concerns. Additionally, with the reduced availability of commonly used medications in some regions, clinicians are forced to utilize alternatives with which they may have limited experience.

This review article is directed towards primary care veterinarians working with feline patients. The selection of medications discussed is based on many of the clinical challenges commonly encountered in practice.

The evidence for use of some of these medications is limited due to their novelty. Known mechanisms of action, pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamics data, adverse effects and clinical uses are reviewed where possible, with clinical recommendations made based on the evidence of data available.