MSD Animal Health has announced the launch of 'Be Active', a new campaign to support veterinary practices and encourage more clients to bring in their older cats for a six-month health screening. MSD Animal Health has announced the launch of 'Be Active', a new campaign to support veterinary practices and encourage more clients to bring in their older cats for a six-month health screening.   

The company says that the campaign has been launched in response to a survey it conducted amongst pet owners which found that more than half had never consulted their vet about their aging pets. 58% admitted that they were unaware of the signs of aging in their pets, and 45% said they were unaware that something could be done to help pets as they get older1.

Karland King, Brand Manager for Established Brands at MSD Animal Health said: "Our Pet Owner Survey reveals missed opportunities for vets to educate their clients, and cat owners to ensure they get the best advice and preventative care for their older cats.

"Our new Be Active campaign has therefore been designed to support vets in this education process and supply a pack of resources for them to actively encourage clients to seek advice and regular checks from their vet. It aims to help vets position themselves as the best source of information and support for clients with older cats, helping older cats stay healthier and more active for longer, starting with a six-monthly health check."

The World Small Animal Veterinary Association recommends that most pets have an annual health check2. As cats get older or start receiving treatment for long-term conditions such as diabetes or hyperthyroidism, it is recommended that the veterinary examination is increased to every six months3.  

To support the Be Active campaign MSD Animal Health has produced a range of resources for veterinary practices, including promotional leaflets and posters, and a PR toolkit with advice and materials to help veterinary surgeons promote their practices and support the campaign locally. 

For further information, contact your MSD Animal Health representative.

References

  1. MSD Animal Health Pet Owners Survey 2016 – Pet Owner Market Research conducted by Dr Emmanuel Streel, Consultant  http://www.wsava.org/default/files/WSAVA%20vaccination%20Guidelines%202015%20Full%29Version.pdf (accessed Sept 2016)
  2. WSAVA Vaccination Guidelines Group, Guidelines for the vaccination of dogs and cats (Jan 2016).
  3. AAFP Senior Care Guidelines. J Feline Med Surg 2009;11(9):763-78.

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