Drs. Natalia Giannakopoulou & Ben Blacklock on Fundoscopy in Cats

All Cats Considered – Episode 305

Our latest episode of “All Cats Considered” features Natalia Giannakopoulou, DVM, PGCertSAO, MRCVS, and Ben Blacklock, BVSc, DipECVO, SFHEA, MRCVS from the ophthalmology department at the Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, discussing their recent publication on fundoscopy in cats. They share practical advice for general practitioners on using ophthalmoscopes effectively, including tips for examining both healthy and pathological eyes to build a mental reference of normal variations. They emphasize the importance of dilating the pupil for a clearer view and offer step-by-step guidance on assessing the fundus systematically to avoid missing subtle lesions.

The conversation also explores alternative equipment like the panoptic ophthalmoscope and smartphones for fundoscopy, providing accessible options for practices without advanced tools. Natalia and Ben discuss common diagnostic pitfalls, such as mistaking subalbinotic fundus for pathology, and highlight key fundus changes associated with systemic conditions like hypertension and feline infectious peritonitis (FIP). They underscore the value of regular retinal exams, particularly in senior cats, and recommend resources for clinicians to further hone their ophthalmologic skills.

Additional Resources:

JFMS Clinical Spotlight article: Fundoscopy in cats: a practical guide and common findings
Feline Ophthalmology: An Atlas & Text
Feline ophthalmology: The Manual

Recent Episodes

Dr. Frane Banovic on Immune-Related Skin Disorders (Part 2)

Our latest episode of “All Cats Considered” features the return of Frane Banovic, DVM, PhD, DECVD, a veterinary dermatologist from the University of Georgia, for part two of our discussion on feline immune-mediated skin disorders. Building on the foundation laid in our previous episode, Dr. Banovic dives deeper into the more unusual and complex conditions outlined in the JFMS Clinical Spotlight article, including erythema multiforme, Stevens-Johnson syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis, alopecia areata, auricular chondritis, plasma cell pododermatitis, and proliferative necrotizing otitis externa.

Throughout the conversation, Dr. Banovic offers practical guidance for general practitioners, highlighting when to suspect immune-mediated skin disease and how to approach diagnosis and treatment—even in the absence of clear evidence. He shares insights into the pathophysiology of these conditions, the role of herpesvirus in triggering erythema multiforme-like syndromes, and why tacrolimus may be preferred over long-term topical steroids in some cases. With a focus on clinical relevance and emerging research, this episode is a valuable resource for any veterinary professional managing complex feline dermatologic cases.
Dr. Luca Ferasin on Practical Approaches to Feline Heart Conditions

In this episode of “All Cats Considered,” Michelle Meyer, DVM, a general practitioner and past president of the FelineVMA, joins Luca Ferasin, DVM, PhD, CertVC, PGCert(HE), DipECVIM-CA (Cardiology), GPCert(B&PS), FRCVS to discuss practical approaches to feline cardiac care. Dr. Ferasin delves into the world of heart murmurs, relaying that while echocardiograms are ideal for all cats with murmurs, financial constraints often necessitate alternative strategies. He highlights the utility of NT-proBNP testing as a valuable initial step to assess the likelihood of significant cardiac issues and touches upon the challenges of diagnosing silent cardiac conditions in cats and the potential benefits of annual NT-proBNP screening.
Dr. Frane Banovic on Immune-Related Skin Disorders (Part 1)

Our latest episode of “All Cats Considered” features Frane Banovic, DVM, PhD, DECVD, a veterinary dermatologist from the University of Georgia, discussing feline immune-mediated skin disorders and delving into the complexities of these conditions. Dr. Banovic clarifies the terminology around “autoimmune” versus “immune-mediated” diseases in veterinary medicine and shares his journey into veterinary dermatology, highlighting how the unique visual aspects of the skin allow for in-depth investigation of immunological processes.
Dr. Joya Griffin on Understanding and Treating Itchy Cats

This episode features Dr. Joya Griffin joining us to discuss the complexities of feline dermatology. The conversation highlights the often chronic nature of skin conditions in cats and the challenges veterinary professionals face in diagnosis and treatment, and how it has the potential to cause strain on the caregiver-cat bond. Dr. Griffin stresses the importance of clear communication with caregivers to manage expectations and explore various treatment options, including compounded medications, topical therapies, and immunotherapy. A significant portion of the discussion revolves around allergic skin disease, underscoring the diverse ways it can manifest in cats and the crucial role of consistent flea control, even in indoor environments. Dr. Griffin also addresses common misconceptions, such as the belief that indoor cats cannot have allergies and the overemphasis on grain-free diets in relation to food sensitivities.
Dr. Cecilia Villaverde on Managing Comorbidities with Nutrition

For our March 2025 JFMS Clinical Spotlight episode, we are joined by Cecilia Villaverde, BVSc, PhD, DECVCN, DACVIM (Nutrition) to discuss her article, “Feline comorbidities: a nutritional approach to management.” Dr. Villaverde dives into the complexities of nutritional management for cats with multiple health conditions. She emphasizes the critical role of thorough nutritional assessments, including physical examinations and detailed diet histories, taking a practical, step-by-step approach to developing personalized nutritional plans.

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