2022 AAFP/AAHA Antimicrobial Stewardship Guidelines
2022 AAFP/AAHA Antimicrobial Stewardship Guidelines
Veterinarians agree to protect animal and public health when they pledge the Veterinarian's Oath. It is the responsibility of veterinarians working with feline patients to maintain their health through routine health examinations, preventive strategies, and client education. When a condition threatens or impairs feline health and wellbeing, it is essential to obtain an accurate clinical diagnosis whenever possible. Once the decision is reached to use antimicrobial therapy, veterinarians strive to optimize therapeutic efficacy, minimize resistance to antimicrobials, and protect public and animal health.
Antimicrobial stewardship, as defined by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), refers to the actions veterinarians take individually and as a profession to preserve the effectiveness and availability of antimicrobial drugs through conscientious oversight and responsible medical decision-making while safeguarding animal, public, and environmental health. Stewardship involves:
- Preventing common diseases through preventive and management strategies.
- Using evidence-based approaches to make decisions about antimicrobial drugs.
- Using antimicrobial drugs judiciously and sparingly while evaluating therapeutic outcomes.
Download - 2014 Revised Judicious Therapeutic Use of Antimicrobials in Cats Guidelines
Download - 2006 Judicious Therapeutic Use of Antimicrobials in Cats Guidelines