Work

Development of standard consensus definitions for infectious urinary tract disease in dogs and cats, a modified Delphi study

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: OBJECTIVES: To develop consensus-based definitions for infectious urinary tract disease in dogs and cats. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A modified Delphi approach was used to develop consensus on standard terminology and definitions. RESULTS: Four rounds of review were performed with two different expert and stakeholder audiences. The four rounds of review involved 19, 16, 90 and 52 participants, respectively. Consensus was reached for a collection of 29 terms and associated definitions, and one set of cut-off values. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Standardisation of terminology is a foundational component of clinical communication, surveillance and guideline development. Unclear or variable definitions have commonly been present in studies of urinary tract disease in dogs and cats, causing confusion and hampering evidence assessment. Development of a set of standardised terms and definitions based on broad stakeholder consensus should assist with diagnosis, communication, surveillance and clinical research, improving the evidence base pertaining to infectious urinary tract disease and fostering improved clinical guidance.

Source: Journal of Small Animal Practice

DOI: 10.1111/jsap.70127

Authors: J. S. Weese, F. Allerton, K. Scahill, T. M. Sørensen, L. R. Jessen

Institutions: Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Willows Veterinary Centre and Referral Service, University of Copenhagen

Language: English

Topic: Veterinary Medicine and Surgery

Subfield: Small Animals

Field: Veterinary

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $4,520