Antimicrobial stewardship in dogs and cats: from diagnosis to drug selection

Start with the clinical indication

Antimicrobial stewardship aims to treat patients effectively while minimizing the development of antimicrobial resistance. The treatment decision therefore includes assessing whether an antimicrobial is indicated, as well as selecting an appropriate drug when treatment is needed. [1] [2] [3]

Seek an accurate clinical diagnosis whenever possible and assess whether a bacterial infection is likely. A collection of nonspecific symptoms can have several explanations; those symptoms alone do not establish that an antibiotic will address the underlying problem. [1] [3]

Use culture information

Culture and antimicrobial susceptibility testing can help guide antimicrobial selection. These results provide information for choosing an appropriate option instead of routinely selecting a broad-spectrum drug without investigating the likely organism and its susceptibility. [1] [4]

Consider the infection site

The site of infection also matters. Drug selection should consider whether the antimicrobial can reach the infection site and whether it is appropriate for the suspected or identified organism. [1] [5]

Consult condition-specific guidance

Condition-specific veterinary guidelines can inform antimicrobial selection and treatment duration. The lecture illustrates this with urinary tract infection guidance for dogs and cats; recommendations should be applied to the relevant condition and clinical presentation. [1] [5]

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