Dr. Lisa Restine interviews Dr. Ashlie Saffire to talk about chronic enteropathies in cats.
Join Hill's host Dr. Lisa Restine as she sits down with Dr. Ashley Saffire, the president of the newly renamed Feline VMA (formerly AAFP). In this episode, they discuss the intricacies of feline gastrointestinal (GI) diseases, highlighting the importance of accurate diagnosis and treatment.
Dr. Saffire, an ABVP feline specialist certified since 2018 and a seasoned veterinarian from Ohio State University, shares her passion and extensive knowledge about cats. Currently practicing in Columbus, Ohio, Dr. Saffire brings a wealth of experience to the table.
The conversation covers the redefined term "chronic enteropathy" (CE), an umbrella term covering various GI diseases in cats characterized by persistent symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss, and decreased appetite. Dr. Saffire emphasizes the significance of proper history evaluation and tiered diagnostic processes, from basic fecal tests to advanced imaging and biopsy when necessary.
Listeners will gain valuable insights into the role of diet in managing feline chronic enteropathies, with tips on choosing the right therapeutic diets, such as highly digestible, fiber-enriched, limited protein, and hydrolyzed diets. Dr. Saffire also stresses the importance of patient-specific diagnostic approaches and the need to avoid premature use of steroids and antibiotics like Metronidazole.
Whether you are a pet parent or a veterinary professional, this episode imparts critical knowledge on maintaining feline GI health and the latest advancements in feline medicine. Tune in for an engaging and informative discussion filled with practical advice and expert perspectives.
