A novel therapy for treating fear and anxiety in felines has been commercially launched. Pregabalin oral solution (Bonqat; Zoetis) is now available to veterinary clinics throughout the US and can be obtained by cat owners with a prescription from a veterinarian.

Pregabalin oral solution is indicated for the alleviation of feline acute anxiety and fear associated with transportation and veterinary visits. The liquid DEA Schedule Class V drug was approved by the FDA in November 2023.

“Maintaining routine checkups is essential to cats’ overall health, yet only 40% of cats visit the veterinarian annually, compared to 82% of dogs. The stress of veterinary visits on cats and their owners can prevent cats from receiving the care they need,” Tara Bidgood, DVM, PhD, DACVCP, vice president, veterinary professional services and medical affairs for US Petcare at Zoetis, said in a news release.

 “Bonqat offers a unique solution to cat care because it not only makes it easier for pet owners to get cats to their veterinarian but also serves as a catalyst for cats to receive more comprehensive care once at the clinic, including diagnostics and preventive care for fleas, parasites and vaccinations.”

A study on the perception of cat stress found that many felines suffer from anxiety and fear related to travel and veterinary visits. In the study, 59% of cats were reported to have exhibited signs of distress during car travel and 66% of cats exhibited signs of stress during veterinary visits.

 Common signs of acute anxiety and fear can range from subtle to severe and include freezing, hiding, vocalizing, tail flicking, increased breathing and panting, restlessness, hissing, scratching and biting.

If untreated, acute anxiety and fear may worsen with subsequent experiences, which can compound the distress of being placed into a carrier and being transported to and from the clinic. According to Zoetis, anxiety and fear may reduce a patient’s chance of receiving a comprehensive physical exam.

A pet’s stress and anxiety also have an effect on clients. More than half of cat owners reported feeling anxious about veterinary visits and associated travel because of their pets’ stress, according to Margaret E. Gruen, DVM, MVPH, PhD, DACVB, associate professor of behavioral medicine at North Carolina State University in Raleigh. “Removing these barriers can help cultivate a more positive and productive veterinary experience for both cats and their owners by focusing on cats’ general well-being rather than the anxiety of the visit itself, which can also help maintain the unique human-animal bond,” Gruen said in the release.

Pregabalin oral solution is administered orally to cats by their owners and can be mixed with food. It is indicated for administration as a single dose of 5 mg/kg (0.1mL/kg) approximately 1.5 hours before the start of the transportation or veterinary visit and can be given on 2 consecutive days.

In a field study conducted in Finland, adverse reactions related to pregabalin oral solution included mild sedation, ataxia and lethargy, according to the FDA.

Additionally, the FDA recommends those handling pregabalin oral solution take precautions such as avoiding contact with an individual’s skin, eyes and other mucus membranes. Humans exposed to pregabalin should seek medical advice and may experience dizziness, sleepiness, blurred vision, weakness, dry mouth, and difficulty with concentration or attention.

Zoetis is redefining the feline veterinary experience with the commercial launch of Bonqat (pregabalin oral solution) in the U.S. News release. Zoetis. April 15, 2024. Accessed April 22, 2024. 

https://www.zoetisus.com/news-and-media/zoetis-is-redefining-the-feline-veterinary-experience-with-the-commercial-launch-of-bonqat

Novel therapy for treating anxiety and fear in cats receives FDA approval. 

. November 18, 2023. Accessed April 22, 2024. 

https://www.dvm360.com/view/novel-therapy-for-treating-anxiety-and-fear-in-cats-receives-fda-approval

Mariti C, Guerrini F, Vallini V, et al. The perception of cat stress by Italian owners. J Vet Behav. 2017;20:74-81. doi:10.1016/j.jveb.2017.04.002

Ellis SLH. Recognizing and assessing feline emotions during the consultation: History, body language and behavior. 

Mariti C, Bowen JE, Campa S, Grebe G, Sighieri C, Gazzano A. Guardians’ perceptions of cats’ welfare and behavior regarding visiting veterinary clinics. 

Articles

Pregabalin oral solution (Bonqat; Zoetis) is indicated for use in cats during travel and veterinary visits.

New drug for reducing feline fear and anxiety is commercially launched

Royal Canin shared the news that it expanded its Veterinary Gastrointestinal (GI) portfolio. The 5 new diets have been created through collaboration between Royal Canin researchers, specialists, and veterinary practitioners to help improve the GI health of pets through nutrition.

"Royal Canin is committed to making a better world for pets by putting fmline and canine needs at the forefront of scientific innovation," said Jean-Lin Pelatan, general Manager, of Royal Canin US Veterinary Business Unit, in an organizational release.

 "We are proud to introduce our newest GI innovations, backed by robust science, for cats and dogs. We are confident these unique diets will help veterinarians who need alternate diet options in gastrointestinal management."

According to the release, the 5 new diets are the following:

Gastrointestinal Low Fat + Hydrolyzed Protein Canine

: A highly palatable and uniquely created by combining a highly digestible hydrolyzed soy protein, fiber blend, and a low-fat content level. This diet is for supporting long-term GI health in dogs that may experience food response sensitivities.

: This new diet is formulated with nutritional management of small dogs that require a fat-restricted diet. This product features a mix of highly digestible proteins, fiber blends, and omega-3s.

ROYAL CANIN Gastrointestinal High Fiber Loaf in Sauce Canine: 

Formulated with highly digestible protein, this diet has a unique fiber blend that helps regulate intestinal transit and prebiotics to help promote a balanced and healthy microbiome.

ROYAL CANIN Gastrointestinal Hydrolyzed Protein Feline

: This diet is made with a highly digestible hydrolyzed soy protein and fiber blend to help support long-term gastrointestinal health in cats who could be experiencing food-responsive sensitivities.

ROYAL CANIN Gastrointestinal Fiber Response Thin Slices in Gravy: 

This diet combines the benefits of wet diets to help with hydration along with psyllium as a crucial fiber to maintain a healthy transit in feline patients.

 over 1.2 million insured pets in its database to help determine the top conditions affecting felines and canines in 2023. Their findings discovered that for feline patients, the top reason for a visit to the veterinary clinic was gastroenteritis which was the number 2 reason for canines.

Royal Canin unveils expansion to gastrointestinal portfolio, announces 5 new diets. News release. Royal Canin. April 19, 2024. Accessed April 22, 2024. 

https://prnmedia.prnewswire.com/news-releases/royal-canin-unveils-expansion-to-gastrointestinal-portfolio-announces-five-new-diets-302116426.html

Dermatitis, gastroenteritis among most common conditions that prompt veterinary visits. News release. Nationwide. April 18, 2024. Accessed April 19, 2024. 

https://news.nationwide.com/041824-dermatitis-gastroenteritis-most-common-conditions-prompt-vet-visits/#:~:text=In%202023%2C%20top%2010%20conditions,million%20Nationwide%C2%AE%20pet%20claims&text=Columbus%2C%20OH%20%E2%80%93%20Treating%20conditions%20like,be%20unsettling%20for%20pet%20families

Royal Canin unveiled the expansion of its gastrointestinal portfolio

Pet food company launches new gastrointestinal diets 

Happy Veterinary Receptionist Week! We are celebrating the essential role these professionals play in supporting both pets and their owners. This week serves as a reminder of their invaluable contributions to the veterinary field and compassionate care. Here are 3 articles spotlighting veterinary receptionists:

Veterinary receptionists bridge the gap between pet owners and veterinary professionals, ensuring clear communication and a positive patient experience. In this article, discover how 

 have the hardest job in the hospital (from the opinion of a veterinarian).

 (CSRs) can make an appointment start and end more smoothly when they are collaborating with the rest of the veterinary team. Brian Faulkner, BSc (Hons), BVM&S, CertGP (SAM), CertGP (BPS), MBA, MSc (Psych), FRCVS, gave a presentation at the 2023 New York Vet Show in New York, New York on how to optimize your CSRs with training.

For some reason, certain professionals view receptionists as dispensable and technicians and veterinarians as indispensable. Nothing could be further from the truth. Marc Rosenberg, VMD, argues that these staff members must 

combine tolerance, compassion, and charisma

 far more than any other of their colleagues.

Spotlighting the incredible work veterinary receptionists do every day with these 3 related articles

3 must-reads for Veterinary Receptionist Week

 readers! We wanted to wish all the veterinary receptionists out there a happy Veterinary Receptionist Week! As a recent commentary article by Harris Fitzgerel, DVM, BS, 

, receptionists have the hardest job in the clinic by a landslide. All their hard work and dedication to patients, staff, and clients does not go unnoticed or underappreciated, so we hope you all have a tremendous week!

As we celebrate the wonderful receptionists out there, here is what else you can find this week on dvm360.com:

s Pet Assistance & Wellness (PAW) program surveyed over 240 people diagnosed with cancer who have a dog or cat at home and found almost half worry about not being able to keep their pets due to treatment costs, among other findings.

, Frank Bozelka, DVM, joins host Adam Christman, DVM, MBA, to offer advice on for veterinary students who will be graduating from school this year.

, Marc Rosenberg, DVM, explains how veterinary practices can be ethical but also competitive when it comes to building strong relationships with specialists outside of their clinic.

Royal Canin announced it has expanded its veterinary gastrointestinal portfolio to include 5 new diets that aim to help the digestive health of both dogs and cats by nourishing and supporting their gastrointestinal tract and microbiome.

Adam Christman, DVM, MBA, shared all that he sees in store for the graduating classes of 2024 as they prepare to enter the industry, plus why it is important to take care of themselves as they embark on this new journey.

 is still accepting nominations for our 4th annual Veterinary Heroes Award? One veterinary professional will be selected by a panel of judges in each category that demonstrate a measurable difference in the outcome of their patients. The categories this year include client service representative, dermatology, feline medicine, surgery, veterinary paraprofessional, and more. Learn more 

Here is a sneak peek of this week’s headlines 

Sneak peek: Survey finds clients diagnosed with cancer worry about affording care for their pets, and other veterinary news 

Editor’s note: All names and businesses in this dilemma case are fictitious, but the scenario is based on real occurrences.

The scope and protocol of clinical veterinary practice have slowly been changing over the past 10 years. The general practice clinician is taking advantage of the increasing numbers and proximity of referral specialists. Cape Clinic was a 5-veterinarian companion pet–care facility located in busy suburbia. This gold-standard clinic had a caring clientele with the means to provide whatever was necessary for their beloved pets. During his 32 years in the profession, the hospital director has seen many medical changes and breakthroughs. He remembered when the only local independent practicing specialists were an orthopedist and an ophthalmologist. When other specialty care was required, a referral to a university facility was made. For clients, this often resulted in a long drive and an even longer wait for an appointment.

Fast-forward to 2024, and there are specialists at every turn. There are mobile veterinarians, cardiologists, orthopedists, and ophthalmologists. There is easy access to internet-based boarded radiologists and ultrasound specialists. Brick-and-mortar emergency and specialty care service practices also are increasing.

 Not only are they opening in large numbers, but they also are in locations not far from one another. This leads to these various specialty centers becoming very competitive.

 Local referring veterinarians now have several choices for their clients, but they also have to deal with the solicitation from these facilities for their referrals.

This is where things can get ethically touchy. Many of the specialty centers will offer lunch-and-learn sessions at clinics to familiarize staff with their services. Many will extend courtesy specialty care to the professional staff of referring clinics. On occasion, nonmonetary incentives will be offered for referring clients. When a primary care veterinarian feels that a client must see a veterinary specialist, there is a professional, ethical way to approach this. The client should be advised in detail why a referral to a specialist is recommended. Several referral options should be offered with an explanation of why the primary care doctor has selected these options. At no time should the referral be influenced by any incentives previously offered by the referral centers. This is not to say that the referring doctor cannot have preferred specialists. However, these preferences should be based only on medical competence, client feedback, and referral communication experience.

The veterinarians at Cape Clinic established a rapport with several specialists and gained respect for their skills. They did not hesitate to give pet owners their opinion of those specialists. They also mentioned that other options were available. The referring veterinarians understood that their obligation was to their clients and were not swayed by the incentives offered by some referral facilities. In today’s highly competitive veterinary atmosphere, there are many tempting financial opportunities. They should all be considered while keeping in mind ethical and professional standards. This is the way veterinary medicine will remain one of the most respected occupations in the US.

Veterinary medical expertise has improved with the increased availability of referral and specialty services. This greatly helps veterinary professionals, but more importantly, our clients. The increased competition within the referral world has been a tremendous benefit for the primary care clinician. There are often tempting incentives. Nevertheless, maintaining an ethical and professional approach when referring patients helps the pets, owners, clinicians, and our profession.

 is founder of Voorhees Veterinary Center in Voorhees, New Jersey. Although many of the scenarios Rosenberg describes in his column are based on real-life events, the veterinary practices, doctors, and employees described are fictional.

Raphael M. Four key trends for animal hospitals in 2021. IndeVets. February 8, 2021. Accessed March 13, 2024. https:// indevets.com/blog/four-key-trends-for-animal-hospitals-in-2021/ 

Emergency veterinary services in the US - market size, industry analysis, trends and forecasts (2024-2029). IBISWorld. September, 2023. Accessed March 13, 2024. https://www. ibisworld.com/united-states/market-research-reports/ emergency-veterinary-services-industry/#AboutThisIndustry

General practitioners are building strong relationships with specialists outside the clinic

Stay competitive—and ethical

Veterinary business leaders play a crucial role in ensuring the success of an organization by promoting excellence and innovation, but still maintaining a high quality of care provided to animals. Additionally, veterinary school leaders play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the profession by educating and inspiring the next generation of veterinarians. They guide curriculum development, research initiatives, and expert mentorship efforts to prepare students for the evolving landscape of veterinary medicine. Together, these leaders drive progress, promote best practices, and uphold the integrity of the veterinary profession.

Various veterinary businesses, organizations, and schools recently announced new promotions and appointments. The following individuals are among those making career advancements:

Kathy Turner and Craig Wallace, Elanco board of directors

Elanco Animal Health Incorporated expanded its board of directors to 14 members with the newest addition of Kathy Turner and Craig Wallace. The 2 directors also joined Elanco’s Finance, Strategy and Oversight Committee.

Turner has occupied prominent executive roles at IDEXX Laboratories, including the position of chief marketing officer. Wallace has more than 3 decades of leadership involvement in renowned companies like Fort Dodge Animal Health, Trupanion, and Ceva.

"We are pleased to welcome Kathy and Craig, both accomplished animal health industry executives, to the Elanco Board," said Jeff Simmons, president and CEO of Elanco Animal Health, in a company release.

 "We are making meaningful progress as we continue to execute our Innovation, Portfolio and Productivity strategy, and we are confident that Kathy and Craig will be valuable additions to the Board."

Jonathan Levine, DVM, DACVIM (Neurology), dean of University of Wisconsin–Madison School of Veterinary Medicine

Jonathan Levine, DVM, DACVIM (Neurology), incoming dean of the University of Wisconsin (UW)–Madison School of Veterinary Medicine. (Photo courtesy of UW-Madison University)

Jonathan Levine, DVM, DACVIM (Neurology), is currently a professor of veterinary neurology and the head of small animal clinical sciences at Texas A&M University, but has now been selected as the next dean of the University of Wisconsin (UW)–Madison School of Veterinary Medicine, effective August 1, 2024. This appointment will make Levine UW–Madison School of Veterinary Medicine’s fourth dean after 41 years since the school of veterinary medicine was established in 1983.

Levine will replace Mark Markel, DVM, PhD, DACVS as dean after Markel’s 12 years in the position. Markel will step down, but continue to run the Comparative Orthopedic Research Laboratory focused on musculoskeletal regeneration.

“I am thrilled and honored to be stepping into this new role as dean,” Levine said in a UW news article.

 “I’m passionate about working together to address our challenges and expand opportunities while serving the diverse needs of the school and the public. I look forward to building on the great accomplishments of Dean Markel and to helping the school’s talented faculty, staff and students continue to make positive impacts.”

Levine's current research is concentrated on neurological ailments found naturally in dogs, with a particular emphasis on conditions pertinent to human spinal cord injuries and central nervous system tumors. Additionally, he has previously fulfilled the role of president for the American Association of Veterinary Clinicians.

“Leaders who are successful program builders must develop collaborative, inclusive cultures that emphasize shared governance. To create such a culture, I encourage feedback, open dialogue, transparency in the face of challenges and a distribution of leadership,” Levine added.

Gavin D.K. Hattersley, Zoetis board of directors

Zoetis Inc, animal health company, appointed Gavin D.K. Hattersley to its board of directors. Hattersley is currently the president, CEO, and director of Molson Coors Beverage Company and brings Zoetis several years of global public company leadership and board experience.

“Gavin Hattersley brings invaluable experience to our Board as we continue to expand in key markets around the globe,” said Kristin Peck, CEO of Zoetis, in a company release.

 “His experience as CEO of a public company will help Zoetis as we continue to advance our vision to be the most trusted and valued animal health company, shaping the future of animal care through our innovation, customer obsession and purpose-driven colleagues.”

Hattersley’s new position increases Zoetis’ board of directors to 13 members. “I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to join Zoetis’ Board of Directors at an exciting time for the company. Zoetis’ mission to lead the industry with best-in-class animal care solutions, a diversified portfolio and a winning company culture matches perfectly with my professional experience and personal values, and I look forward to playing a role in Zoetis’ bright future,” Hattersley said.

Timo Prange, DVM, MS, DACVS (LA), executive veterinary medical officer of NC State College of Veterinary Medicine

Timo Prange, DVM, MS, DACVS (LA), executive veterinary medical officer of the North Carolina State College of Veterinary Medicine (right). (Photo courtesy of NC State University)

In a newly created position, Timo Prange, DVM, MS, DACVS (LA), became the executive veterinary medical officer of the North Carolina State College of Veterinary Medicine. Prange’s responsibilities include focusing on adding efficiencies to the NC State Veterinary Hospital to increase caseload and enhance the clinical experience for both patients and staff members.

“In this role, Dr Prange will help with clinical service interactions and communications and will work closely with the house officer program focusing on mentoring and wellness,” says Dr. Kate Meurs, DVM, DACVIM (Cardiology), dean of the NC State College of Veterinary Medicine, in a news release.

 “We’re taking steps to make interacting with our hospital a smoother experience so that we can increase the caseload.”

Prange is currently a clinical associate professor of equine surgery at the NC State College of Veterinary Medicine and will continue to see equine surgery patients and conduct research into treating cancer and advancing equine health, according to NC State. The school’s teaching hospital cares for about 30,000 patients each year and this new position will help measure its success with treating every patient and leaving clients satisfied.

“I love the opportunity that I’ve been given to help the entire hospital community grow together as a team and to really see our values played out in our everyday workplace culture. This is going to be work, but it’s also going to be exciting. I really enjoy solving problems together with other people,” Prange said.

Elanco appoints 2 animal health industry executives, Kathy Turner and Craig Wallace, to its board of directors. News release. Elanco Animal Health Incorporated. April 1, 2024. Accessed April 19, 2024. 

https://prnmedia.prnewswire.com/news-releases/elanco-appoints-two-animal-health-industry-executives-kathy-turner-and-craig-wallace-to-its-board-of-directors-302104172.html

Mahon E. Jonathan Levine to become dean of UW–Madison School of Veterinary Medicine. University of Wisconsin–Madison. April 1, 2024. Accessed April 19, 2024. 

https://news.wisc.edu/jonathan-levine-to-become-dean-of-uw-madison-school-of-veterinary-medicine/

Zoetis appoints Gavin D.K. Hattersley to its board of directors. News release. Zoetis Inc. April 1, 2024. Accessed April 19, 2024. 

https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240401918431/en

Eplin Wheeler B. New veterinary hospital positions aim to enhance patient, clinician experience. North Carolina State University. April 2, 2024. Accessed April 19, 2024. 

https://news.cvm.ncsu.edu/new-veterinary-hospital-positions-aim-to-enhance-patient-clinician-experience/

Check out the latest news in the veterinary industry with these 5 recent position promotions