The benefits of multidisciplinary collaboration in the successful management of two complex feline cases

Despite a frequent misconception that behavioural concerns are diagnoses of exclusion, medical conditions and behavioural disorders are frequently inter-related. In human medicine, the 'multidisciplinary team' approach (MDTA) is considered the most efficacious way of managing patients with complex and chronic health conditions. The case series illustrates how the MDTA for complex veterinary cases improves diagnosis, treatment and management for positive long-term outcomes in feline patients' health and welfare. Feline patient 1, a 2-year-old spayed domestic shorthair cat, presented for repeated episodes of self-trauma to her face and other areas. Detailed diagnostics explored dermatological, behavioural and neurological differential diagnoses. No single diagnosis could completely explain the feline patient's clinical signs or behaviour. A treatment plan involving medication, environmental management and behaviour modification was implemented to improve her health and welfare. Feline patient 2, a 3-year-old spayed domestic long-haired cat, presented after surgical removal of a trichobezoar (second surgery). The diagnostic work-up considered dermatological, behavioural and gastrointestinal causes. A working diagnosis was made of anxiety disorder with possible compounding factors of gastrointestinal and dermatological conditions. The treatment plan included medication, environmental management and behaviour modification. The overgrooming and fur ingestion behaviours resolved, and long-term strategies maintained physical and emotional health and welfare. Without the MDTA, neither feline patient would have received effective care. Using the MDTA for managing complex veterinary cases provides skilful assessment in determining aetiologies, treatment of complex conditions, and identification and management of contributing factors, which may affect and predict flare-ups. The MDTA improves outcomes for owners, feline patients and the veterinary teams who care for them.