Survey study based on the assessment and management of pain in cats by veterinary professionals after elective sterilization procedures.

ObjectivesEffective pain management is essential for feline patients, particularly those undergoing elective procedures such as ovariohysterectomy (OVH) and orchiectomy. Despite the availability of objective validated pain scales and multimodal analgesia, there is significant variability in pain management practices across veterinary practices.MethodsThe aim of this prospective study was to assess the current use of objective pain scoring systems, analgesic protocols and owner education in the management of pain for feline patients undergoing OVHs and orchiectomies. An anonymous online survey was distributed to veterinarians and veterinary technicians in Ohio, evaluating pain management practices that included an analysis of the use of pain scoring systems, perioperative analgesia and the education provided to owners on ways to evaluate pain in their cats at home.ResultsOnly 20.5% of respondents used objective pain scoring systems preoperatively. Three hours postoperatively, 23% of respondents reported using an objective pain scoring system and only 14.2% reported using objective pain scoring systems before discharge. While opioids and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs were the most commonly used analgesics, female cats were more likely to receive analgesia during recovery compared with male cats (P = 0.01). In addition, 80.5% of OVH patients were discharged with pain medications, compared with 54.9% of orchiectomy patients (P <0.001). Only 8.8% of respondents provided owner education on objective pain scales for use at home, while 76.1% offered education on recognizing subjective pain cues.Conclusions and relevanceThese findings highlight significant gaps in the implementation of objective pain scoring systems and a lack of owner education on the use of objective pain scoring tools, underscoring the need for greater adoption of objective pain assessment tools and more comprehensive owner education. Future research should focus on identifying barriers to the use of pain scoring systems and evaluating the long-term impact of improved pain management on recovery outcomes and welfare.