There have been few innovations in veterinary medicine in the last few years that are likely to have the practical value of the latest antibiotic for cats and dogs. Pets and owners alike are bound to be breathing a large sigh of relief when they discover that the main advantage of this injectable drug is that, once administered, it is equivalent to 2 weeks worth of tablets.Anyone who has wrestled with a less than obliging cat (vet and owner alike!) will soon begin to see the appeal of this potent medication.

Now that my own cat "Jimmy" is fully vaccinated and old enough to be out and about he has come unstuck with the local feline residents keen to make their impression on this naive adolescent!

Infections as a result of bite wounds are all too common but should never be treated lightly. In fact whenever an owner makes us aware that they have been bitten by their cat we supply them with an information leaflet to take with them to their GP. This details the types of organisms and nasty bugs likely to have breached the skin barrier. This then allows the GP to make an informed decision about the most appropriate treatment.

Fortunately for "Jimmy" this new veterinary drug is specifically indicated for these types of bite wound infections. Unfortunately for "Jimmy" his injury has involved his elbow joint necessitating treatment for 6 weeks. At least for me the prospect of having to inject him on 3 occasions has infinitely greater appeal than 6 weeks of tablet administration!

I would like to think that "Jimmy" appreciates that he is fortunate to be on the receiving end of the very latest technology but somehow I just don't get that impression!

Terry Dunne BVMS, Cert SAO, MRCVS

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