Analgesic practices for acute pain management in cats and dogs in Africa.

Abstract

OBJECTIVES: To understand perceptions and analgesic practices for acute pain management in cats and dogs by veterinarians in Africa. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Data from small animal veterinarians were collected using an online questionnaire (English/French) and convenience sampling. Pain management practices and perceptions of veterinarians were analysed using multiple correspondence analysis. RESULTS: A total of 249 participants completed the survey from 20 countries. The readily available opioids, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and local anaesthetics were morphine (n = 90; 36.1%), meloxicam (n = 200; 80.3%) and lidocaine (n = 245; 98.4%), respectively. The majority of participants reported not using pain assessment instruments for perioperative pain in cats (n = 169; 67.9%) or dogs (n = 170; 68.3%). Feline Grimace Scale (n = 27; 10.8%) and Glasgow Composite Measure Pain Scale (n = 30; 12.0%) were the most commonly used instruments in cats and dogs, respectively. Multiple correspondence analysis identified one cluster representing high knowledge of pain assessment, use of peri-operative non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and opioids, pain assessment instruments and recommendations of ongoing non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug therapy after ovariohysterectomy. The second cluster represented low knowledge of pain assessment, non-use of peri-operative non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and opioids, non-use of pain assessment instruments and no recommendations for ongoing non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug therapy after ovariohysterectomy. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Low knowledge and limited access to analgesics were associated with the non-use of perioperative non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and opioids, pain assessment tools and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug therapy following ovariohysterectomy. Continuing education programs and improved drug availability are essential for improving pain management in cats and dogs.