Abstract
Over 420 people from 20 different countries joined the European Society of Feline Medicine (ESFM) and the Small Animal Veterinary Association of Belgium (SAVAB) for their joint Congress on Friday 23—Sunday 25 September at the Ter Elst Congress Centre, Antwerp. Sponsored by Hill's, Forte Dodge and Intervet the meeting provided over three days of topical feline subjects (including a day of interactive keypad sessions), a commercial exhibition with a feline focus and a great social programme.
Delegates enjoy the cat-centric stands at the ESFM Congress exhibition.
Keynote international speaker Antony Moore of Veterinary Oncology Consultants, Australia shared his experiences in the treatment of lymphoma, chemotherapy, mammary tumours and abdominal tumours as well as leading two interactive oncology sessions on case studies. While not officially running an interactive session, David Church of the Royal Veterinary College involved the audience in his discussions on the causes, management and problems associated with the treatment of feline diabetes mellitus. Dan Holden of the County Veterinary Clinic, Somerset, updated the audience on critical care and analgesics. Updates were also provided in feline calicivirus, emerging endocrinopathies and thyroid disorders by a host of well-known names.
David Church quizzes the audience.
Taking on board the two rules of the ESFM Congress laid down by Dr Andy Sparkes, FAB Chairman, in his welcome address to ‘relax and enjoy’, most delegates took the opportunity to see the sites of Antwerp in the scheduled free afternoon (a popular feature of all ESFM Congresses), to chat with friends over Congress dinner and dancing and to indulge in some friendly rivalry in the 10-pin bowling competition.
Over 10 per cent of the delegates enjoyed the experience so much they took the opportunity to book early for the next ESFM Congress in Rome (September 8–10) at the FAB stand. Information on all FAB/ESFM conferences can be found at www.fabcats.org