This free Veterinary CPD Podcast is produced by the Vet Times. Internal medicine specialist Ferran Valls Sanchez gives a short overview of gastrointestinal disease in cats and dogs.

He discusses the importance of checking haematology, biochemistry, and electrolyte levels in patients presenting with signs of gastrointestinal disease.

Although these blood results may not always help us understand the cause of clinical signs, they are important for assessing the consequences of the underlying disease. We hear more about the use of ultrasound and endoscopic biopsies during diagnostic work ups and why it’s crucial to consider history and diet trials when interpreting histology results.

Of course, prognosis and treatment depend on the underlying cause. However, careful conversations with owners to discuss long term at home management, are often key to improving patient outcome.

Related Podcasts:

• Probiotics, Microbiome + Faecal Transplants (Pure Animal Podcast)
• Food Allergies and Intolerances (Clinician’s Brief)
• Role of the Microbiome (Pure Animal Podcast)
• Diarrhoea in Puppies (Cone of Shame Veterinary Podcasts)