Is aspirin safe for cats?

– Via email

It's most definitely not OK and, in fact, I don't recommend it even for dogs anymore, based on research findings that have linked aspirin use in dogs to gastric ulcers. But though the use of aspirin in dogs has long been common practice – even if that may be changing – the use of aspirin in cats has never been recommended.

Cats are very sensitive to pain medications, and that's why veterinarians have long been reluctant to wade into these murky waters, even when faced with cats in chronic pain. With the increase in the keeping of indoor cats, however, many of these pets are living longer, healthier lives – or they would be if the constant pain of arthritis did not decrease their quality of life. The management of that pain is extremely important, especially in older cats.

It's not just older cats who benefit. Treating pain doesn't just make the hurting stop: It also promotes healthy healing. Untreated pain slows healing time, interferes with sleep and depresses the immune system. The treatment of pain improves respiration, shortens postsurgical hospitalization and improves mobility.

Can you see why I'm a strong advocate for modern pain management for our pets? Despite the benefits, though, you should never – let me emphasize that – never give pain medication to your cat without your veterinarian's guidance. If your veterinarian is reluctant to provide medication and advice on pain control, push for a consultation with a specialist to design a safe, individualized pain-management program for your pet. Veterinary specialists in oncology, surgery and anesthesia are usually most familiar with the wide variety of pain medications available today, as well as their safest use.

– Dr. Marty Becker

The buzz

Considering end-of-year donations to charities? Don't forget organizations that help animals.

You don't have to give money to help, though. Shelters can often use items you might be throwing away, such as old newspapers or frayed towels. You might also consider buying large bags of pet food or cat litter and donating those, not only to shelters but also to community food pantries.

What if you do have a little cash to spare? Make sure you agree with the work and the views of any organization that wants your money. And consider this: Groups that don't have the money for direct-mail fundraising campaigns or TV advertising could probably use your donation more than the ones that spend big bucks to get your cash.

In addition to your community's shelter and rescue groups, remember that other organizations could use some support. Some ideas:

• Health research: The Winn Feline Foundation has funded some of the most important research to advance the health of cats, with results that have saved countless lives.

On the dog side, the AKC Health Foundation gives grants for research that's both general and breed- specific.

• Veterinary schools: Your first thought may be "scholarships"– and yes, that's one of the many ways a contribution to your nearest school or college of veterinary medicine can help – but donations can also help pets more directly, and are always needed.

• Fix-it funds: The American Animal Hospital Association's Helping Pets Fund works through veterinarians to help pets whose owners can't afford care.

• Therapy animals: Animals help people in more ways than I have room to list here. From programs where dogs help teach children to read to those helping injured veterans get back on their feet by getting on a horse, animal-assisted therapy is always worth supporting.

– Dr. Marty Becker

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