Latest research: Use of cefovecin in a UK population of cats

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White and tabby cat being held on examination table

Use of cefovecin in a UK population of cats attending first-opinion practices as recorded in electronic health records.

In a collaboration between the University of Bristol and SAVSNET, researchers have described the use of cefovecin (Convenia; Zoetis UK) a third-generation long-acting injectable antimicrobial, in a UK population of cats attending first-opinion practices, and to compare the use of Convenia with the licensed uses described on the UK Convenia datasheet.

  • The most common body system treated was skin in 553 (48.2%) entries, then urinary (n = 157; 13.7%) and respiratory (n = 112; 9.8%).
  • Microbiological evaluation was recorded in 193 (16.8%) entries, with visible purulent material most commonly cited (in 147 [12.8%] entries).
  • A reason for prescribing Convenia over alternative antimicrobials was given in 138 (12.0%) entries; the most cited was an inability to orally medicate the cat in 77 (55.8%) of these entries.
  • Most entries did not describe any microbiological evaluation, or a reason for prescribing Convenia over alternative antimicrobials.
  • Information relevant to decision-making should be recorded in individual animal health records.

This paper is published in the Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery available here.