All Cats Considered – Episode 319
In this episode of All Cats Considered, host Yaiza Gómez-Mejías, LdaVet MANZCVS (Medicine of Cats), RCVS CertAP (Feline Medicine), is joined by Mariana Lopes, DVM, MSc, MVM, MRCVS, DipECVIM-CA (Onc) and Joanna Morris, BSc, BVSc, PhD, FRCVS, FHEA, DipECVIM-CA (Onc) from the University of Glasgow to discuss their recent JFMS Clinical Spotlight article, Oral chemotherapy agents in cats: clinical uses, administration and side effects. The conversation explores when oral chemotherapy is appropriate in feline patients, how clinicians can approach case selection, and the importance of balancing treatment goals with quality of life considerations.
The guests share practical insights into real-world decision-making in primary care, including managing owner compliance, handling tablet administration challenges, and monitoring for adverse effects such as neutropenia and gastrointestinal upset. They also discuss species-specific differences in drug tolerance, the role of supportive care and anti-nausea medications, and the challenges of interpreting blood work in patients with concurrent disease. Throughout the episode, the discussion emphasizes a consistent theme: thoughtful use of oral chemotherapy can offer meaningful benefit when tailored to the individual patient and supported by careful monitoring and clear communication with caregivers.
Additional Resources: JFMS Clinical Spotlight article:
Oral chemotherapy agents in cats: clinical uses, administration and side effects