EUVETCE - The Clinical Compass

CLINICAL COMPASS

Small Animal Insights for Excellence in Practice

Hello Levente,

We hope this message finds you well!

This year, we are bringing you a fresh take on our newsletter - one that delivers key takeaways and clinically relevant insights from recent publications, along with important developments in veterinary medicine across North America and Europe. Expect updates on regulatory changes, emerging trends, and the latest technological advancements shaping our field.

But it’s not all business! We will also share heartwarming and positive stories from the veterinary and animal world to brighten your day.

Of course, we’ll also keep you informed about our RACE-approved CE/CPD Seminars in stunning European locations, where you can step away from the daily grind, invest in your career, and enjoy a well-deserved break. This is our passion: inspiring your professional growth while nurturing the balance that brings you true fulfillment.

We are excited to have you join us on this journey! Here is our first edition. It will be published biweekly, every Thursday - at least for now.

Clinical Insights

Gabapentin's Effect on Blood Pressure in Cats

Gabapentin is often used to reduce stress in cats, but its effects on BP remain unclear. This randomized, blinded, placebo-controlled crossover study evaluated gabapentin’s impact on BP in 16 healthy cats and 13 cats with stable CKD. Three hours after receiving 10 mg/kg of gabapentin or a placebo (administered randomly one week apart), BP was measured. Gabapentin lowered BP by a median of 12 mm Hg in both groups, though individual responses varied significantly.

The study found that cats with higher serum gabapentin concentrations experienced greater BP reductions. While gabapentin may help facilitate BP measurement in anxious or uncooperative cats, the most reliable readings come from calm, non sedated patients.

Read the full article here

Gonadectomy and CCL Disease Risk in Dogs

A recent meta-analysis by Dr. Daniel Low reviewed 24 studies, analyzing data from over 1.8 million dogs to explore the link between gonadectomy and cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) disease.

Key Findings:

Gonadectomy is associated with a twofold increase in CCL disease risk in both male and female dogs.
However, when performed after 1 year of age, the risk appears to decrease—though not significantly.

Limitations:

All included studies were observational, so a direct causal link cannot be confirmed.
The risk of CCL disease is breed-dependent, meaning results may not apply to all dogs.

Study Recommendations:

Delaying gonadectomy until musculoskeletal maturity (≈12 months for small breeds, up to 24 months for giant breeds) may help reduce orthopedic risks.
Decisions should be individualized, taking into account breed, cancer risk, urinary health, and behavior.

Read full article here

Industry Pulse

Librela Update: New Labeling Reflects Reported Adverse Events

Librela, the monoclonal antibody for managing osteoarthritis pain in dogs, has faced scrutiny following numerous client complaints and class-action lawsuits. In response, Zoetis has updated Librela’s U.S. label to include post-approval adverse event data.

The newly listed side effects, reported in decreasing frequency, include neurological issues (ataxia, seizures, paralysis), general symptoms (lethargy, anorexia), urinary concerns, gastrointestinal upset, and musculoskeletal effects. In some cases, adverse reactions have led to euthanasia.

Tail-Wagging Tales

A donkey and a yoga ball - who would have thought it’d be the perfect duo? Diesel, a lonely donkey, was heartbroken when his beloved yoga ball deflated. His owner shared his story online, and the internet responded with kindness - people donated dozens of new yoga balls to keep Diesel entertained. Now, he’s back to playing happily, proving that even small gestures can bring big joy.

Read the full story here

Upcoming EUVETCE Seminars

Your RACE-approved CE/CPD seminars set in breathtaking European locations! This year, we’re excited to offer:

📍 Spring Seminar - Valencia, Spain (May 9-11, 2025)

Topics: Feline Medicine & Small Animal Cardiology - Learn More and Register here

📍 Fall Seminar - Florence, Italy (October 5-6, 2025)

Topic: Emergency & Urgent Care - Designed for both primary care and emergency veterinarians - Learn More and Register here

You will Benefit

✔️ RACE-Approved Credits – Advance your expertise with accredited CE

✔️ Interactive Learning – Small-group sessions for deeper engagement

✔️ World-Class Experts – Learn from renowned professionals and board-certified specialists

✔️ Unforgettable Locations – Explore Valencia’s vibrant culture and cuisine or experience the magic of Florence while sharpening your skills

How Did We Do Today?

We would love to hear your thoughts on this first edition of our new newsletter format! Your feedback helps us keep improving - let us know what you liked and what you'd love to see more of.

Found something interesting? Share this newsletter with your colleagues, and keep the conversation going!

Have a beautiful and meaningful day!

Levente Degi

Veterinarian focusing on Feline Medicine and Co-Founder EUVETCE Experiences